Which of the following sexually transmitted infections is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae, often produces no symptoms, but can be treated with antibiotics? If symptoms occur, they may include painful urination and discharge from the penis or vagina. If left untreated, the infection can result in more serious long-term problems, including infertility, pain, and joint problems.

Choice A reason: Taking the medication between meals will help you avoid becoming constipated is incorrect because it is not the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is a possible benefit of taking the medication between meals, but it is not the main purpose. Iron supplements can cause constipation, but this can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising regularly.

Choice B reason: The medication can cause nausea if taken with food is incorrect because it is not the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is a possible side effect of taking the medication with or without food, but it is not the main reason. Iron supplements can cause nausea, but this can be reduced by taking the medication with a small amount of food, such as crackers, or by taking an antiemetic medication.

Choice C reason: Taking the medication between meals will help you absorb the medication more efficiently is correct because it is the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is the main purpose of taking the medication between meals, as iron absorption is enhanced when the stomach is empty and the pH is low. Iron supplements can interact with food components, such as calcium, phytates, and tannins, and reduce the amount of iron that is absorbed by the body.

Choice D reason: Taking the medication with food increases the risk of esophagitis is incorrect because it is not the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is a possible complication of taking the medication without enough water, but it is not the main reason. Iron supplements can cause esophagitis, which is inflammation of the esophagus, if they are not swallowed properly or if they get stuck in the throat. This can be prevented by taking the medication with a full glass of water, sitting upright, and not lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.

Choice A reason: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is incorrect because it is not characterized by recurrent episodes. It is a chronic infection that progressively damages the immune system and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Choice B reason: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) 2 is correct because it is characterized by recurrent episodes. It is a viral infection that causes genital herpes, which is marked by painful blisters and sores in the genital area. The virus remains dormant in the nerve cells and can reactivate periodically, causing outbreaks.

Choice C reason: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is incorrect because it is not characterized by recurrent episodes. It is a viral infection that causes genital warts and cervical cancer. The virus can persist in the body for a long time, but it does not cause repeated symptoms.

Choice D reason: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is incorrect because it is not characterized by recurrent episodes. It is a viral infection that usually causes mild or no symptoms in healthy people, but can be serious in people with weakened immune systems or unborn babies. The virus can remain latent in the body, but it does not cause flare-ups.