On this page, you will find everything you need to know about gonorrhea.

What is gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium.

It can affect the urethra (urine tube), the cervix (the opening of the uterus at the top of the vagina), the anus, the throat, or the eyes.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea often presents no symptoms in women; if symptoms occur, they usually appear within 10 days of infection.

Symptoms may include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge.
• Pain, discomfort or a burning sensation during urination.
• Pelvic pain, especially during sexual intercourse.
• Irregular bleeding, especially between menstrual periods or after intercourse.
• Sore and dry throat.

In men, if symptoms occur, they usually appear within one to three days.

Symptoms may include:

• Thick yellow or white discharge from the penis.
• Pain, discomfort, or burning sensation during urination.
• Pain in the testicles.
• Redness around the penis opening.
• Anal discharge.
• Sore and dry throat.

What are the causes of gonorrhea?

• Having sex with an infected person. It can also be transmitted through the fingers or hands from the genitals to the eyes.
• Gonorrhea can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her child during childbirth.

How is it diagnosed?

The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination. They may also request additional procedures as needed, such as:

• Taking a swab (sample) from the male urethra or female cervix. It can also be detected in a urine sample.
• The doctor may request tests for other sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, chlamydia, and HIV.

What are the treatments for gonorrhea?

Treatment involves several procedures or as needed, and may include the following:

Gonorrhea can be effectively treated with antibiotics. Sometimes, the patient may need to be retested two weeks after treatment to ensure its success. Another test is conducted after three months to ensure it has not returned.

What are the preventive measures for gonorrhea?

One of the most important measures to prevent gonorrhea infection is:

• Avoiding sexual relationships outside marriage.
• Avoiding sex with a person who has gonorrhea until their treatment and cure are complete.
• Conducting regular check-ups.

What are the complications of gonorrhea infection?

If untreated, gonorrhea can cause:

• Permanent damage to the eyes, joints, heart, or brain.
• In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause infertility.
• Gonorrhea can also cause infertility in men, as it can damage the tubes that carry sperm.
• If gonorrhea is transmitted from an infected mother to her child during childbirth, it can cause an eye infection (neonatal conjunctivitis) or even blindness.

When should you see a doctor?

If you suspect you have gonorrhea, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible for a woman to have gonorrhea without symptoms?

Yes, a woman may have the infection without any clear symptoms.

Is it possible for the infection to be transmitted to the fetus from the infected mother?

Yes, through fluids and secretions during childbirth, which can cause an eye infection (neonatal conjunctivitis) that requires prompt treatment.