Gonorrhoea Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gonorrhoea
[ˌgɒnəˈrɪə ]
Definition
medical condition
Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It typically affects the mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, but can also infect the throat and rectum. Symptoms in men may include painful urination and discharge, while women might experience increased vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding. If left untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to serious health complications, including infertility and increased susceptibility to HIV. It is important for sexually active individuals to get tested regularly to prevent transmission.
Synonyms
GC, the clap.
Examples of usage
- She was diagnosed with gonorrhoea after her routine check-up.
- Gonorrhoea can often be asymptomatic in women.
- The doctor prescribed antibiotics to treat the gonorrhoea.
- Practicing safe sex can reduce the risk of gonorrhoea.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health
- Infected people often show no symptoms, which makes the condition easily spread without awareness.
- If untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to serious health complications, including infertility in both men and women.
Cultural Significance
- Throughout history, references to sexually transmitted infections have appeared in literature, reflecting societal attitudes toward sexuality and health.
- Public awareness campaigns have evolved, especially in the last few decades, emphasizing safe sex to reduce the rate of infections.
Science
- The bacteria causing gonorrhoea, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, can develop resistance to antibiotics, making treatment more challenging.
- Research into gonorrhoea helps scientists understand how bacterial infections can mutate and develop drug resistance.
Psychology
- Having a sexually transmitted infection can affect mental health, leading to anxiety and stigma for those diagnosed.
- Education and awareness are crucial in reducing the shame often associated with these infections, promoting better health outcomes.
Origin of 'gonorrhoea'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gonorrhoea' comes from the Greek words 'gono' meaning seed, and 'rhoia' meaning flow, describing the discharge associated with the infection.
- Historical texts show variations of the word back to the 16th century, reflecting its long-standing presence in medical vocabulary.
The term 'gonorrhoea' originates from the Late Latin word 'gonorrhoea', which is derived from the Greek 'gonorrhoia', meaning 'a flowing of seed'. The word itself is a combination of 'gono', meaning 'seed' or 'generation', and 'rrhoia', meaning 'flow' or 'discharge'. This reflects the symptomatology of the disease, particularly the discharge associated with it. The understanding of gonorrhoea has evolved significantly over centuries. In medieval times, it was often conflated with other forms of venereal disease. The bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae was identified as the causative agent of the disease in the late 19th century, leading to more effective treatments and a greater understanding of its transmission and prevention.