Gonorrhea is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect both men and women and is primarily spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Gonorrhea can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
In many cases, gonorrhea causes no symptoms, so people may be unaware they have the infection. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include pain or burning during urination, discharge from the penis or vagina, and pain in the lower abdomen in women.
If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause serious health problems, including infertility in both men and women. In women, gonorrhea can also lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause long-term pain and increase the risk of infertility.
Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, and early treatment is important to prevent serious health problems. Regular testing and prompt treatment are important for maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of STIs. If you have had unprotected sex or suspect you may have an STI, it is important to get tested.
Page last reviewed: 6 August 2024