Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection that can infect the cervix, urethra, rectum, anus and throat. If left untreated it can lead to serious health problems in both men and women, including infertility. Gonorrhoea can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby.
Signs and symptoms of gonorrhoea Signs and symptoms are not always apparent.
In women symptoms can include: • Pain or burning when urinating; • Change in vaginal discharge, e.g. increase in volume, change in colour to yellow or green and the development of a strong smell; • Irritation and/or discharge from the anus.
In men symptoms can include: • A yellow, green or white painful discharge from the penis; • Irritation and/or discharge from the anus; • Inflammation of the testes or prostate gland.
Transmission and prevention of gonorrhoea Gonorrhoea can be transmitted through several forms of sex, although penetrative sex poses the highest risk of infection. So too does inserting your fingers into an infected person’s vagina, anus or mouth and then putting them in your own: sharing sex toys poses a risk too.
The most effective way to prevent transmission of gonorrhoea is to ensure that condoms are used for anal, oral or vaginal sex (or use a dental dam for oral sex including mouth to anus or mouth to vagina).
Treatment of gonorrhoea Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotics, either one single dose of ciprofloxacin or a large dose of penicillin.
Because gonorrhoea has, over time, developed some resistance to antibiotics, it may be necessary to administer a second antibiotic dose, usually provided by injection. Following treatment you will be asked to return to the clinic a week later to determine whether the infection has cleared.
