Can You Get Gonorrhoea from Kissing?

Have you ever thought that kissing someone can lead to severe Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) like Gonorrhoea? Some doctors may avoid the question by considering it a misconception, while some nod their heads in confirmation when patients ask, “Can you get Gonorrhoea from kissing?”. 

We already know that Gonorrhoea is one of the most common STIs, transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse, be it oral sex, anal sex, or vaginal sex. But Gonorrhoea and kissing are the talk of the town right now, as recent studies have confused many people into believing that mouth-to-mouth kissing can lead to Gonorrhoea. In this blog post, let us explore more about such misconceptions about Gonorrhoea transmission and how “The Clap” is actually transmitted. Additionally, we will also discuss if you can get Gonorrhoea from kissing or not.

Common Misconceptions About Gonorrhoea Transmission

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection mainly caused by the bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Also referred to as “The Clap”, Gonorrhoea can affect both men and women, often in the age range of 15 to 24 years. The infection is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse or by sharing sex toys.

In some people, Gonorrhoea can also affect other body parts like the throat, eyes, or rectum, apart from infecting the urethra, cervix, or uterus. Although Gonorrhoea is often transmitted through unprotected sex, there are some common myths/misconceptions among people about Gonorrhoea transmission. These misconceptions are as follows:

Myth #1 - Gonorrhoea can be transmitted through a toilet seat

The fact is the bacteria, Neisseria gonnorrhoea cannot live outside the body for a longer period of time. That means it is very unlikely for people to develop Gonorrhoea infection from public toilet seats. 

Myth #2 - Condoms Can Guaranteedly Prevent Gonorrhoea Transmission

Well, the bacterium may be transmitted from kissing intimately to genital organs and mouth-to-mouth. Although it is a popular belief that using condoms can prevent STIs, but it cannot provide full-proof protection against STIs. there are other ways through which Gonorrhoea can be transmitted, like skin-to-skin contact with the infected person and anal/oral sex. 

Myth #3 - Gonorrhoea Doesn’t Spread Through Oral Sex 

Most people believe that Gonorrhoea is only spread through vaginal sex, which is, in fact, a misconception. There are high chances of developing an infection if you engage in oral sex. 

Myth #4 - You can get Gonorrhoea once in a lifetime

There is no study or research that can prove that people infected with Gonorrhoea once cannot get reinfected. In a year, an average of around 4% of the infected people get reinfected with Gonorrhoea. This is why it is crucial for people to get effective Gonorrhoea treatment and use efficient prevention methods. 

Myth #5 - Gonorrhea Is Only Transmitted Through Genital Contact

Genital-to-genital contact is the common mode of Gonorrhoea transmission. However, this sexually transmitted infection can spread through oral or anal contact by unprotected sexual intercourse. The bacteria can also affect the throat and rectum, leading to Gonorrhoea infection that needs prompt. treatment. 

How Gonorrhoea is Transmitted Typically?

Gonorrhoea is primarily transmitted through the exchange of sexual fluids during sexual activities. Sexual fluids like vaginal secretions, semen, and pre-ejaculate can be the means of transmission for STIs like Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia. If you are engaged in a sexual activity without using any protection like condoms or dental dams, then there are high chances of getting Gonorrhoea, if your sexual partner is infected with Gonorrhoea. 

Can You Get Gonorrhoea From Kissing?

Experts still aren’t sure if you can potentially get Gonorrhoea from kissing. However, as per recent research, there is a lower risk of getting infected through kissing a sexual partner already infected with the STI. The bacteria causing Gonorrhoea is Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can potentially infect mucous membranes of the genital, rectal, and oral areas. The bacteria can be present in the saliva if in contact with the sexual fluids, but the concentration of bacteria is lower than in any other sexual fluids. Deep kissing or French kissing with the bacteria, Neisseria gonorrhoeae present in the saliva can lead to Gonorrhoea. 

Conclusion: Preventive Measures for Gonorrhoea

The likelihood of spreading Gonorrhoea by kissing is low. However, it is essential to practice safe sex and follow other preventive measures for avoiding Gonorrhoea and maintaining optimal sexual health. We recommend you follow the below preventive measures for Gonorrhoea:

• Avoid Unprotected Sex: Using condoms or dental dams during sexual intercourse can help prevent STIs/STDs like Gonorrhoea. Practising safe sex is essential, especially if you are engaging in oral or anal sex. 

• Regular STI Testing: Routine testing of Gonorrhoea is mandatory, once or twice a year. With consistent or regular testing of STIs, you can get the advantage of early detection and treatment of STIs like Gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, Herpes, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). 

• Limit Sexual Partners: You should avoid sexual intercourse with multiple sexual partners to reduce the chances of getting Gonorrhoea. Also, you can ensure that your sexual partner has been well-tested for STIs/STDs prior to having sex. 

Make sure to be aware of the Gonorrhoea symptoms and if you notice them for yourself or your partner, you must seek immediate medical attention and get appropriate treatment. As per most healthcare providers, taking the ultimate combination of Gonorrhoea tablets, Cefixime 200 mg and Azithromycin, is the most effective medication for Gonorrhoea treatment. The dual medication effectively inhibits the growth of the bacteria causing Gonorrhoea and prevent the infection from spreading to other body areas.