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Gonorrhoea

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What is gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This bacteria is found in semen and vaginal fluids, and it can be passed on to another person during unprotected sex. Although gonorrhoea is treatable with antibiotics, it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

Because gonorrhoea doesn't always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages, it's important to get tested if you think you've been at risk, even if you feel perfectly healthy.

How do you get gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is spread through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The infection is passed through contact with semen or vaginal fluids containing the bacteria. It’s also possible to contract gonorrhoea through sharing sex toys.

Unprotected sex can allow the bacteria to enter the cervix, urethra, or rectum, and it can also affect the throat or eyes if fluids come into contact with those areas during sex.

For extra protection during oral sex, you can use condoms or dental dams—thin, flexible sheets of plastic that cover the genitals or anus.

Symptoms of gonorrhoea

Not everyone with gonorrhoea will experience symptoms. It’s estimated that one in ten men and half of all women with gonorrhoea don’t show symptoms, but the infection can still be passed on to others. If symptoms do appear, they often develop within two weeks of exposure (though it can take longer).

Symptoms in Women:

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Unusual vaginal discharge (thin, watery, green/yellow)
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Pain when urinating
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Abdominal or pelvic pain
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Irregular bleeding, such as between periods or after sex
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Heavier periods than usual

Symptoms in Men:

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Unusual discharge from the penis (white, yellow, or green)
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Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
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Swelling or pain in the foreskin
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Pain in the testicles

Gonorrhoea can also infect the rectum, causing pain and discharge, or the eyes, leading to conjunctivitis (redness, pain, and discharge).

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Testing for Gonorrhoea

If you think you may have been exposed to gonorrhoea, it’s important to get tested. Generally, you should wait about a week after potential exposure before testing for gonorrhoea. Testing is simple and involves providing a urine sample or having a swab taken from the affected area.

You can get tested for free at NHS clinics or, if you prefer privacy, you can order a home test kit. Simply send off your sample to a lab for results.

Treatment for gonorrhoea

You don’t always need to wait for positive test results to start treatment. If your partner has been diagnosed with gonorrhoea or if your doctor suspects you have it, treatment can begin right away.

Typically, gonorrhoea is treated with a single injection of antibiotics, along with an additional antibiotic tablet. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking medication to ensure the infection is completely cleared.

If you have any concerns or would like to get tested, you can also make an appointment with one of our GPs for professional advice and treatment.