Gonorrhea complicating the puerperium Save
ICD-10 code: O98.23
Chapter: Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
Gonorrhea Complicating the Puerperium: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is a common infection that affects both men and women. Gonorrhea can cause serious complications when it affects pregnant women during the puerperium period.
The puerperium period is the six weeks after childbirth. During this time, the body undergoes several changes as it adjusts to postpartum life. Women who contract gonorrhea during this period may experience complications that can affect their health and that of their newborns.
Causes of Gonorrhea Complicating the Puerperium
Gonorrhea can be transmitted from an infected person to a non-infected person through sexual contact. Pregnant women can contract the infection from their partners or from other people. During childbirth, the bacteria can be transmitted from the mother to the newborn, leading to neonatal gonorrhea.
Symptoms of Gonorrhea Complicating the Puerperium
Women who contract gonorrhea during the puerperium period may experience symptoms such as:
- Pelvic pain
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Bleeding or spotting
- Fever
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Neonatal gonorrhea can cause symptoms such as:
- Eye discharge or redness
- Fever
- Irritability
- Poor feeding
- Rash or blisters
- Swollen joints
Treatment of Gonorrhea Complicating the Puerperium
Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics. However, some strains of the bacteria have become resistant to certain antibiotics, making treatment more challenging. Pregnant women who contract gonorrhea during the puerperium period should seek medical attention immediately to prevent complications from developing.
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. Neonatal gonorrhea can cause blindness, joint infections, and meningitis.
In conclusion, gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious complications when it affects pregnant women during the puerperium period. Women who experience symptoms of gonorrhea during this period should seek medical attention immediately to prevent complications from developing. Early diagnosis and treatment of the infection can prevent serious health problems for both the mother and her