Disclaimer:
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalised diagnosis, treatment, or advice regarding sexually transmitted infections.
Q1: What is gonorrhoea?
A: Gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Like Chlamydia, many people with gonorrhoea do not have noticeable symptoms, so testing is important even if you feel well.
Q2: How do people get gonorrhoea?
A: Gonorrhoea spreads through sexual contact:
- Vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom
- Sharing sex toys that are not cleaned or covered with a new condom
- From mother to baby during childbirth (can infect eyes of the newborn)
It cannot be transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food.
Q3: Who is most at risk?
Anyone sexually active can get gonorrhoea, but risk is higher if you:
- Are under 30
- Have multiple or new sexual partners
- Do not use condoms consistently
- Have had another STI before
- Have a partner who has not been tested
Q4: What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea?
Many people have no symptoms. When present, symptoms may include:
In women:
- Unusual vaginal discharge (yellow or green)
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Pain during sex
In men:
- White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Swelling or tenderness in the testicles
In both genders:
- Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding
- Sore throat (if oral infection)
Q5: How is gonorrhoea diagnosed?
- Women: vaginal swab
- Men: first-catch urine or urethral swab
- Anal/throat infections: swabs from the affected area
Tests are quick and usually return results in a few days. Early detection prevents complications and reduces the risk of passing it to others.
Q6: How is gonorrhoea treated?
Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotics, usually as an injection or oral medication, depending on current medical guidelines.
- Avoid sexual activity for 7 days after treatment
- All recent sexual partners should be tested and treated
- Complete the full treatment even if symptoms improve quickly
Q7: Do I need a follow-up test?
Yes. A repeat test is recommended 1–2 weeks after treatment for oral infections and about 3 months for genital infections to ensure the infection is cleared and to check for re-infection.
Q8: What happens if gonorrhoea is not treated?
Untreated gonorrhoea can cause serious complications:
In women:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Infertility
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
In men:
- Epididymo-orchitis (infection of the testicles)
- Swelling and long-term pain
- Rarely, infertility
In both genders:
- Spread to joints or bloodstream (rare but serious)
- Increased risk of HIV infection
Pregnancy complications:
- Premature birth
- Eye infection in the newborn
Q9: How can gonorrhoea be prevented?
- Use condoms consistently during vaginal, anal, and oral sex
- Get tested regularly, especially with new or multiple partners
- Ensure sexual partners are tested and treated if necessary
- Avoid sharing unwashed sex toys or use a new condom each time
Q10: Should I tell my partner?
Yes. All sexual partners from the past 6 months should be informed so they can be tested and treated. Many clinics provide confidential partner notification services to protect privacy and prevent re-infection.
