Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmissible infection (STI) which is sometimes called 'the clap'. Most people have no symptoms at all, so you don't know when you have it or when your partner has it.
Signs and symptoms
Penis owners can get a yellow discharge from the penis, pain/redness at the opening of the penis or a burning sensation when passing urine.
Most vulva owners have no symptoms at all. Some may notice unusual vaginal discharge, pain when passing urine and lower belly pain.
Sometimes people may have a sore throat or unusual discharge from the rectum (bum).
Risk factors
Unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, that is, sex without a condom or dam.
What can happen
If left untreated, gonorrhoea can cause painful, serious and permanent health problems. Gonorrhoea can spread and cause damage that makes you unable to have a baby (infertile). This damage can happen if it spreads to the:
- cervix, uterus or fallopian tubes and cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
testicles (balls) and cause epididymo-orchitis.
- Gonorrhoea can also spread to the joints, heart, and blood which can cause permanent damage.
- Getting tested and treated early can help prevent these health issues.
Treatment
If you have gonorrhoea your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Your doctor will ask you about other people you may have had unprotected sex with because they could also have gonorrhoea. This is called contact tracing.
Prevention
- Always use condoms or dams and water-based lubricant.
- Before you have sex, talk with your partner about the importance of safe sex and sexual health.
- Get regular STI tests.
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