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Antibiotics for penile discharge: Penile discharge: symptoms, causes and treatment

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Penile discharge: symptoms, causes and treatment

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Concerned about unexpected penile discharge? If you experience abnormal fluid leaking from your penis, you might be understandably alarmed. While semen and urine are perfectly normal, penile discharge is often the result of a bacterial, viral or yeast infection and is usually a sign that something is amiss, so it is worth getting checked out.

Male sexual health specialist Dr Geoff Hackett looks at the symptoms, causes and treatment options for penile discharge:

What is penile discharge?

Penile discharge is any substance that comes from the urethra (urine tube) at the tip of the penis that is not urine or semen.

Discharge from the penis is commonly the sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and it requires prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment, usually by staff at a specialist sexual health clinic.

Penile discharge symptoms

Penile discharge can vary in amount from scanty to profuse and in colour from clear to yellow or green. The timing can vary from loss in the morning only to throughout the day.

Penile discharge is often accompanied by other symptoms, including the following:

  • Dysuria: burning on passing urine.
  • Frequency: frequent need to pass urine.
  • Nocturia: excessive need to urinate at night.
  • Rash: a rash in the genital area can be painful or itchy.
  • Swollen glands: swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

    If you experience watery, clear, opaque or cloudy discharge and it contains pus or blood, make an urgent appointment with your GP or local sexual health clinic.

        Penile discharge causes

        Common causes of penile discharge include non-gonococcal or non-specific urethritis (NSU) and gonococcal urethritis.

                Non-gonococcal or non-specific urethritis (NSU)

                NSU is the most common form of penile discharge, accounting for over 60,000 new cases per year in England alone. Men aged between 20 and 35 years are most commonly affected.

                Several different organisms (bugs) can cause the syndrome:

                • Chlamydia trachomatis – 25 to 60 per cent.
                • Mycoplasma genitalium – up to 25 per cent.
                • Ureaplasma urealyticum – 15 to 25 per cent.
                • Trichomonas vaginalis – 17 per cent.
                • Herpes simplex – rarely.

                  Routine tests are not available to detect all of these infections, so the cause of the NSU might not be found. In some patients, no sexual contact has occurred and the symptoms are blamed on irritants, soaps or detergents. But no firm evidence exists to support this theory.

                  Gonococcal urethritis (gonorrhoea)

                  If you have contracted gonorrhoea, also known as the clap, this is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

                  • Gonorrhoea incubation period: it usually takes two to five days from infection to symptoms. Without treatment, symptoms of urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) and purulent (pus-containing) discharge peak within two weeks.
                  • Gonorrhoea symptoms: discharge occurs in 95 per cent of men and is purulent in 75 per cent, white or cloudy in 10 per cent and clear in 5 per cent. Recent urination can make the discharge appear less purulent. When the infection begins to resolve, the discharge changes from purulent to mucoid (mucus-like).
                  • Gonorrhoea transmission: transmitted by sexual intercourse, including oral sex. Without treatment, the infection can continue for many months.
                  • Gonorrhoea complications: spread up the urethra to the epididymis (sperm-storing tube connected to the testicles) is rare and infertility can be a rare late complication. Anal infection is common especially, but not only, when the infection is transmitted by anal intercourse. Bloodstream infection occurs in less than 1 per cent of patients, causing arthritis of the knees, wrists and hands plus fever, chills and skin lesions, usually papules or pustules (red or pus-containing raised spots or bumps) on the hands or feet.

                    If you have any of the symptoms of gonorrhoea or you think you may have an STI, visit your local sexual health clinic for an STI test.

                    Penile discharge diagnosis

                    Penile discharge or urethritis is diagnosed by finding white blood cells (neutrophils or pus cells) on a urethral swab or ‘first catch’ urine sample (ie urine taken from when you first begin to pass water). The infecting organism might be identified from these samples.

                    Ideally, the patient should be seen in an STI clinic for prompt examination of specimens.

                    Ideally, the patient should be seen in a sexual health clinic for prompt examination of specimens because transfer of specimens to a hospital laboratory can lead to a missed diagnosis.

                    The colour and consistency of the discharge does not help to distinguish NSU from gonococcal urethritis. Gonococcal urethritis is diagnosed in 98 per cent of men by microscopic examination of the discharge obtained from a urethral swab.

                    Other infections are less easily diagnosed. Between 6 and 11 per cent of sexually active UK men carry chlamydia in their urethra with minimal or no symptoms.

                    The development of more sensitive tests, such as polymerase chain reaction and ligase chain reaction, might allow for more precise diagnosis, particularly in patients with no symptoms and especially if they are sexual contacts of proven infected women. But this is not used routinely in STI clinics.

                    Penile discharge treatments

                    Depending on the cause, a course of antibiotics is usually the first point of defence for penile discharge:

                    Gonococcal urethritis

                    One of several antibiotics can be given as a single dose:

                    • Ceftriaxone – 250mg by intramuscular injection
                    • Cefixime – 400mg orally
                    • Ciprofloxacin – 500mg orally
                    • Ofloxacin – 400mg orally.

                      In addition, doxycycline 100mg twice daily for seven days is often given to treat chlamydia in case it is present. Sexual partners are given similar treatment.

                      NSU

                      Usual antibiotic treatment includes doxycycline 100mg twice daily for seven days or a single dose of azithromycin 2g as a single dose if the infection is due to Chlamydia trachomatis, according to the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) guidelines.

                      Sexual partners should be given similar treatment. Patients should be followed up after two weeks with repeat swabs (known as ‘test of cure’) because of the high risk of re-infection often due to failure of all sexual partners to comply with therapy.

                      Contact tracing

                      It is essential that sexual contacts of men with gonococcal urethritis and NSU are traced and treated, preferably at an STI clinic. Without treatment of sexual contacts, recurrence is likely and treatment will probably fail.

                      Pregnant or potentially pregnant sexual partners should not be given erythromycin or tetracycline antibiotics (including doxycycline).

                      Conventional therapy for NSU fails in 25 per cent of cases. Longer courses of antibiotics have not been shown to be of benefit and re-infection from a new or untreated partner is the usual cause.

                      It’s important to realise that recurrence of NSU can cause considerable psychological strain on individuals and relationships, and it’s important that both partners in a relationship have a full explanation and understanding of the nature of the condition.

                      Sexual health services

                      If you are concerned you might have a sexually transmitted infection, always get checked out. Contact your local sexual health clinic on the details below, or speak to your GP.

                      • Find a sexual health clinic near you.
                      • Find contraceptive services near you.
                      • Call the National Sexual Health Line 0300 123 7123.
                      • Call Worth Talking About on 0300 123 2930 (for under-18s).

                        Last updated: 28-06-2020

                        Dr Roger Henderson
                        Dr Roger Henderson is a Senior GP, national medical columnist and UK medical director for LIVA Healthcare He appears regularly on television and radio and has written multiple books.

                        Male Urethritis Medication: Antibiotics, Antibiotic, Quinolone

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                        Antibiotic for penile discharge: causes, symptoms and treatment

                        Contents

                        • 1 Antibiotic for penile discharge
                          • 1.1 Penile discharge problem
                          • 1.2 Everyday causes
                          • 1. 3 Medical reasons
                          • 1.4 Discharge symptoms
                          • 1.5 Main symptoms
                          • 1.6 Additional symptoms
                          • 1.7 Diagnosis of discharge
                          • 1.8 Treatment of discharge
                          • 1.9Related videos:
                          • 1.10 Q&A:
                              • 1.10.0.1 What causes discharge from the penis?
                              • 1.10.0.2 What symptoms accompany discharge from the penis?
                              • 1.10.0.3 How to treat discharge from the penis?
                              • 1.10.0.4 Which antibiotics are used to treat penile discharge?
                              • 1.10.0.5 How long can the treatment of penile discharge last?
                              • 1.10.0.6 Can penile discharge go away on its own without treatment?
                              • 1.10.0.7 What symptoms accompany penile discharge?
                              • 1.10.0.8 How to treat discharge from the penis?
                              • 1.10.0.9 Which antibiotics can be used to treat penile discharge?
                              • 1.10.0.10 How long can penile discharge be treated?
                          • 1.11 Traditional methods
                          • 1.12 Alternative methods

                        Antibiotics for penile discharge: causes, symptoms and treatment. What antibiotics are effective for such discharges and how to take them correctly. Tips and recommendations from doctors on the treatment of genital infections.

                        Discharge from the penis can be a sign of various diseases that require immediate treatment. One of the most effective methods of fighting infections is the use of antibiotics.

                        Causes of penile discharge:

                        Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis and others can cause penile discharge. Also, discharge may be associated with inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system, such as prostatitis or urethritis. It can also be caused by fungal infections or other diseases that require a doctor’s consultation and the appointment of an appropriate antibiotic.

                        Symptoms of penile discharge:

                        The main symptoms of penile discharge are changes in the color and consistency of the discharge, as well as itching, burning or pain in the genital area. You may also experience discomfort with urination or sexual intercourse. In the event of such symptoms, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing antibiotics.

                        Treatment of penile discharge with antibiotics:

                        Antibiotics are an effective treatment for sexually transmitted infections and other conditions that cause penile discharge. When choosing an antibiotic, it is necessary to take into account the type of infection, its sensitivity to drugs and the individual characteristics of the patient. The duration of treatment and the dosage of the antibiotic are also determined by the doctor. It is important to follow all the doctor’s recommendations and complete the full course of treatment in order to avoid relapses and complications.

                        If you have penile discharge, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and antibiotics. Remember that self-medication can lead to negative consequences and aggravate the condition. Take care of your health and seek professional help.

                        Penile discharge problem

                        Penile discharge can be a sign of various problems such as infections, inflammation or other diseases. They may be accompanied by various symptoms such as itching, burning, redness, or an unpleasant odor.

                        If you experience penile discharge, it is important to see a doctor for professional advice and diagnosis. The doctor will be able to determine the cause of the discharge and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

                        One possible treatment for penile discharge is the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the discharge is caused by a bacterial infection.

                        It is important to remember that self-medication with antibiotics can be dangerous and lead to the development of bacterial resistance to the drugs. Therefore, before starting antibiotics, you should consult your doctor and follow his recommendations.

                        In addition to antibiotics, your doctor may prescribe other treatments, such as antifungals, antivirals, or immune boosters.

                        In general, the treatment of penile discharge depends on its cause. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

                        Everyday Causes

                        Discharge from the penis can be caused by a variety of everyday causes, such as:

                        • Poor hygiene: Improper genital hygiene can lead to bacterial growth and infection.
                        • Wearing synthetic underwear: Synthetic underwear does not allow the skin to breathe, which creates a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria and fungi.
                        • Too frequent or too intense sexual intercourse: Frequent or intense sexual intercourse may cause irritation and inflammation of the genitals, which may lead to discharge.
                        • Stress: Increased stress can weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to infection and inflammation.
                        • Long-term use of antibiotics: Long-term use of antibiotics can upset the balance of microorganisms in the body and promote infection.

                        If you experience penile discharge, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

                        Medical reasons

                        Discharge from the penis can be caused by various medical reasons. Some of them include:

                        • AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and others can cause discharge from the penis. If you suspect you have an STI, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
                        • Urethritis – Inflammation of the urethra, which may be caused by infection or other factors, may also cause discharge from the penis. Urethritis can be bacterial or non-bacterial and requires medical intervention to treat it.
                        • Prostatitis – Inflammation of the prostate can cause discharge from the penis. Prostatitis can be bacterial or non-bacterial and requires diagnosis and treatment by a doctor.
                        • Urolithiasis – Stone formation in the urinary tract can cause discharge from the penis. If you are suffering from kidney stones, see your doctor for the necessary treatment.

                        If you have penile discharge, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The doctor will be able to determine the cause of the discharge and suggest the appropriate treatment for your case.

                        Discharge symptoms

                        Discharge from the penis can be a sign of various diseases or infections. Here are some of the main symptoms to look out for:

                        • Discharge with an unusual color (yellow, green, gray, white, etc.)
                        • Discharge that smells bad
                        • Severe itching or burning in the penis
                        • Discomfort or pain when urinating
                        • Eruptions or sores on the penis
                        • Swelling or redness of the genitals

                        If you suspect an infection or disease, you should consult a doctor for professional advice and appropriate treatment.

                        Main symptoms

                        Discharge from the penis can be a symptom of various diseases and infections. The main symptoms to look out for are:

                        • Bad smell: The discharge from the penis may have a bad smell, which could be a sign of infection or bacterial inflammation.
                        • Discoloration of the discharge: If the discharge from the penis becomes yellow, green or gray, this may indicate an infection.
                        • Burning or itching: Severe burning or itching in the penile area may indicate inflammation or infection.
                        • Soreness: if the discharge is accompanied by pain or discomfort in the penis, it may be a sign of infection or other diseases.
                        • Frequent urination: If there is a desire to urinate frequently along with the discharge, this may indicate a problem with the urinary system.

                        If you develop penile discharge and experience one or more of these symptoms, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

                        Additional symptoms

                        In addition to penile discharge, sexually transmitted infections may present with other symptoms. Here are some of them:

                        • Itching and burning in the genital area.
                        • Pain and discomfort when urinating.
                        • Redness and swelling of the genitals.
                        • Appearance of ulcers and rashes on or around the genitals.
                        • Separating nodules or warts on the genitals.
                        • Unusual smell discharge from the penis.
                        • Lower abdominal pain or in the lumbar region.
                        • Increased body temperature and general weakness of the body.

                        If you experience one or more of these symptoms, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

                        Diagnosis of discharge

                        Discharge from the penis can be a sign of various diseases and infections. To accurately determine the cause and prescribe the correct treatment, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis.

                        Diagnosis of discharge includes the following steps:

                        1. History taking. The doctor asks questions about the symptoms, duration, intensity and other features of the discharge.
                        2. Visual inspection. The doctor examines the genitals to assess the condition of the mucous membranes and secretions.
                        3. Laboratory tests. Urine, blood, and secretions may be ordered to determine the causative agent of infection or inflammation.
                        4. Bacteriological examination. Allows you to identify the causative agent of infection and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics.
                        5. Ultrasound of the pelvic organs. Allows you to exclude or confirm the presence of pathologies in the organs of the genitourinary system.

                        Discharge diagnosis benefits:

                        • Precise determination of the cause of discharge.
                        • Targeted and effective treatment.
                        • Prevention of the development of complications and consequences of the disease.
                        • Increasing the effectiveness of treatment and speedy recovery of health.

                        If you have penile discharge, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early contact with a specialist will help to avoid complications and return to a full life.

                        Treatment of discharge

                        Discharge from the penis can be a sign of various diseases and requires timely treatment. One of the main treatments for discharge is the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are medicines that effectively fight bacterial infections.

                        Before you start treating discharge, you must consult a doctor and undergo the necessary examinations. The doctor will determine the cause of the discharge and prescribe the appropriate antibiotic. Self-medication can lead to negative consequences and worsen the state of health.

                        The duration of antibiotics and their dosage depends on the individual case and the recommendations of the doctor. It is important to follow all instructions and do not skip medications.

                        When treating secretions with antibiotics, possible side effects should also be taken into account. Uncontrolled use of antibiotics can cause intestinal dysbiosis and deterioration of the immune system. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor about possible side effects and how to prevent them.

                        In addition to taking antibiotics, your doctor may prescribe additional treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs, probiotics, or immunomodulators. This will help enhance the effect of antibiotics and speed up the healing process.

                        It is important to remember that self-medication can be hazardous to health. In case of discharge from the penis, it is necessary to consult a doctor, get professional advice and prescribe the correct treatment. This is the only way to achieve a complete cure and prevent possible complications.

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                        Q&A:

                        What causes penile discharge?

                        Discharge from the penis can be caused by various causes such as infections, inflammation, sexually transmitted infections, trauma, allergic reactions, and others. To determine the exact cause, you should consult a doctor.

                        What symptoms accompany discharge from the penis?

                        Symptoms associated with penile discharge may include itching, burning, redness, swelling, soreness, unusual odors, changes in color and consistency of the discharge. There may also be associated symptoms such as pain when urinating, frequent urination, general weakness, and discomfort in the genital area.

                        How to treat discharge from the penis?

                        Treatment of penile discharge depends on its cause. In most cases, antibiotics prescribed by a doctor are required. Self-medication is not recommended, as the wrong choice of drugs can aggravate the situation. In case of discharge from the penis, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

                        What antibiotics are used to treat penile discharge?

                        Antibiotics used in the treatment of penile discharge are selected by the doctor depending on the cause and types of infection. Some of the commonly used antibiotics in such cases include amoxicillin, azithromycin, doxycycline, ceftriaxone, and others. The exact drug and dosage should be prescribed only by a doctor after diagnosis.

                        How long can the treatment of penile discharge last?

                        The duration of treatment for penile discharge depends on the cause and severity of the disease. In some cases, treatment may take several days, in others it may take several weeks or even months. It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations and take all prescribed drugs until the end of the course, even if the symptoms disappear earlier.

                        Can penile discharge go away on its own without treatment?

                        Discharge from the penis can be caused by a variety of causes, including infection, inflammation, sexual disease, and injury or injury to the genitals.

                        What symptoms accompany discharge from the penis?

                        Symptoms of penile discharge may include changes in the color and odor of the discharge, itching, burning, pain or discomfort in the genitals, and rashes or sores on the skin around the penis.

                        How to treat discharge from the penis?

                        Treatment of penile discharge depends on its cause. In case of infections, antibiotics or antifungals may be needed. Inflammatory processes can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs. It is important to see a doctor for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

                        Which antibiotics can be used to treat penile discharge?

                        Antibiotics may be needed to treat penile discharge caused by an infection. The most common antibiotic used in such cases is azithromycin. However, the choice of antibiotic depends on the type of infection and can only be prescribed by a doctor.

                        How long can penile discharge be treated?

                        The duration of treatment for penile discharge depends on its cause and the severity of the condition. Usually, short-term treatment with antibiotics or other drugs can take a few days to a week. However, in some cases, treatment can last up to several weeks or even months.

                        Conventional treatments

                        In addition to antibiotics, there are also traditional treatments for penile discharge that can help manage this problem. They can be used as an addition to the main treatment or as an independent way to improve the condition.

                        The following are some of the most common traditional treatments for penile discharge:

                        1. Warm sitz baths. Taking warm sitz baths can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. To do this, you can add a little salt or herbal decoction to the water.
                        2. Use of antiseptics. Topical application of antiseptics such as miramistin or chlorhexidine may help reduce bacteria and reduce inflammation.
                        3. The use of herbal remedies. Some herbs such as calendula, chamomile or tea tree have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Using infusions or ointments based on these herbs can help fight the infection.
                        4. Personal care. Regular washing of the penis with mild soap and warm water will help remove excess bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.

                        It is important to remember that conventional treatments may only be effective for mild infections or as an adjunct to primary treatment. In case of severe symptoms or lack of improvement, it is necessary to consult a doctor for professional medical attention.

                        Alternative treatments

                        In addition to antibiotics, there are other treatments for penile discharge that can also be effective.

                        1. Use of antifungal drugs

                        If the discharge is caused by a fungal infection, then antifungal drugs can be an effective treatment. Such drugs are usually prescribed in the form of ointments or creams for external use. However, before using antifungal drugs, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

                        2. Use of anti-inflammatories

                        If the cause of the discharge is inflammation, then the use of anti-inflammatories may help to manage the symptoms. Such agents may be presented as ointments, gels or oral preparations. However, before starting treatment, it is important to consult your doctor.

                        3. Use of probiotics

                        Probiotics may be useful in the treatment of penile discharge caused by microflora imbalance. Probiotics help restore normal microflora and may help fight infection.

                        4. Hygiene

                        Hygiene is an important aspect of treating penile discharge. Regular washing of the genitals with mild soap and warm water can help reduce symptoms and prevent infection.

                        5. Avoid contact with the infectious agent

                        To prevent the recurrence of discharge from the penis, it is important to avoid contact with the infectious agent. This may include using condoms when having sex, avoiding poorly cleaned public places, etc.

                        Recommended treatment for sexually transmitted infections revised to reflect rising levels of antibiotic resistance

                        \n

                        In response to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines for the treatment of three common sexually transmitted infections by (STI).

                        \n

                        \nChlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are all bacterial infections that can usually be treated with antibiotics. However, these STIs often go undiagnosed and are increasingly difficult to treat as some antibiotics have lost their effectiveness through misuse or overuse. An estimated 131 million people develop chlamydia, 78 million gonorrhea and 5.6 million syphilis each year.

                        \n

                        \nIn recent years, antibiotic resistance of these STIs has increased rapidly and the choice of treatments has narrowed. Among these STIs, gonococci have developed the greatest resistance to antibiotics. Multidrug-resistant strains of gonococci have already been identified that do not respond to any available antibiotics. In the case of chlamydia and syphilis, antibiotic resistance is also observed, albeit to a lesser extent, and this jeopardizes prevention and rapid treatment.

                        \n

                        \nSTIs, left undiagnosed and untreated, can lead to serious complications and long-term health problems in women, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage, and gonorrhea and chlamydia, if left untreated, can lead to to infertility in both men and women. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can also increase the risk of HIV infection by two to three times. Left untreated for an STI in a pregnant woman increases the chance of stillbirth and death of the newborn.

                        \n

                        \n“Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are significant public health problems worldwide, affecting the quality of life of millions of people, causing serious illness and sometimes death. The new WHO guidelines highlight the need for timely treatment of these STIs with appropriate antibiotics at the correct doses to limit their spread and improve sexual and reproductive health. To do this, national health services need to monitor patterns of antibiotic resistance in these infections in their countries,” said Ian Askew, Director of the WHO Department of Reproductive Health and Research.

                        \n

                        \nThe new recommendations are based on the latest evidence available on the most effective drugs for these three sexually transmitted infections.

                        \n

                        Gonorrhea

                        \n

                        \nGonorrhea is a common STI that can lead to infection of the genitals, rectum, and throat. With the advent of each new class of antibiotics for the treatment of gonorrhea, antimicrobial resistance has emerged and increased. Due to widespread resistance, older and cheaper antibiotics have lost their effectiveness in treating the infection.

                        \n

                        \nDue to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, WHO is urging countries to update their national gonorrhea treatment guidelines. National health authorities should monitor the levels of resistance to various antibiotics in gonococcal strains circulating in their populations. The new guidance calls on health authorities to recommend that clinicians prescribe the antibiotic that is most effective in the context of local patterns of resistance. According to new WHO guidelines, the use of quinolones (a class of antibiotics) is not recommended for the treatment of gonorrhea due to widespread high levels of resistance.

                        \n

                        Syphilis

                        \n

                        \nSyphilis is spread by contact with a wound on the genitals, anus, rectum, lips, and mouth, or from mother to child during pregnancy. Infection transmitted to a fetus by a woman with untreated syphilis often results in fetal death. In 2012, it was estimated that 143 000 early fetal deaths/stillbirths, 62 000 neonatal deaths and 44 000 preterm/low birth weight births resulted from mother-to-child transmission of syphilis.

                        \n

                        \nNew WHO guidance strongly recommends a single dose of benzathine penicillin, an injectable antibiotic that a doctor or nurse injects into the buttock or thigh muscle of an infected patient, to treat syphilis. It is the most effective drug for syphilis, more effective and cheaper than oral antibiotics.

                        \n

                        \nAt the Sixty-ninth World Health Assembly in May 2016, benzathine-penicillin was recognized as one of the essential medicines, the stocks of which have been significantly shortened over the past few years. WHO receives reports of shortages from representatives and providers of antenatal care services in countries with a high burden of syphilis from the three WHO regions. WHO is working with partners to identify countries that are short of the drug and is helping to monitor the global availability of benzathine-penicillin to bridge the gap between national demand and supply of this antibiotic.

                        \n

                        Chlamydia

                        \n

                        \nChlamydia is the most common bacterial STI, and people with this infection often co-infect with gonorrhea. Symptoms of chlamydia include discharge and a burning sensation when urinating, but most people have no symptoms of the infection. Even in the absence of symptoms, the infection can have negative consequences for the reproductive system.

                        \n

                        \nWHO urges countries to immediately move to use the updated guidelines, in line with recommendations of the Global Health Sector Strategy on STIs (2016-2021) endorsed by governments at the World Health Assembly in May 2016. The new guidelines are also in line with the Global Action Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance, which was adopted by governments at the World Health Assembly in May 2015.

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                        \nWhen used correctly and consistently, condoms are one of the most effective methods of protection against STIs.

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