Gonorrhoea
A common sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can cause discharge and pain, but often has no symptoms.
Quick Summary
Discharge from the penis or vagina, pain when passing urine, pelvic pain or bleeding between periods; often no symptoms in women.
Antibiotics, usually an injection; partners should be treated.
Unprotected sex and multiple partners.
Overview
Gonorrhoea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Untreated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
Antibiotic resistance is increasing, so testing and correct treatment are important.
Symptoms
Discharge
From penis or vagina.
Burning urine
Pain passing urine.
Pelvic pain
In women.
No symptoms
Many women and some men.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
Infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae through sexual contact.
Key Risk Factors
- Unprotected sex Not using condoms.
- Multiple partners Or a partner with other partners.
- Previous STIs Increase risk.
Management & Treatment
01. Antibiotics
As prescribed, often ceftriaxone injection.
02. Partner treatment
Avoid sex until treatment is complete.
03. Testing
Test for other STIs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it cause infertility?
Do condoms help?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Gonorrhea | The Clap(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Gonorrhoea(opens in a new tab) · NHS