Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The infection is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact. Without treatment, gonorrhoea can cause health problems and be unknowingly passed on to sexual partners.

An infection can occur in the urethra, cervix, anus, or throat. Not everyone experiences symptoms. This is precisely why many people only discover they have gonorrhoea after a partner tests positive or during a preventive STI test.

What is gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial STI that can infect mucous membranes. The bacterium primarily settles in the urinary tract and reproductive organs, but can also occur in the throat or anus.

If the infection is not treated, the bacterium can spread further and cause complications. Fortunately, gonorrhoea is treatable when the infection is detected early.

How do you get gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is transmitted during unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected person.

Because many people have no symptoms, they can transmit the bacterium without knowing it themselves. As a result, gonorrhoea is relatively common.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea?

Symptoms vary per person. Some people experience clear symptoms, while others have no symptoms at all.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain or a burning sensation during urination.
• Yellow, green, or white discharge from the penis.
• Increased vaginal discharge.
• Lower abdominal pain.
• Bleeding between menstrual periods.
• Pain or irritation of the anus.
• Sore throat after oral sex.

The absence of symptoms does not mean there is no infection present.

When should you test for gonorrhoea?

A test is advisable when:

• You have had unprotected sex.
• A sexual partner has tested positive for gonorrhoea.
• You have symptoms that may indicate an STI.
• You have had multiple sexual partners.
• You want certainty after a potential risk situation.

Even without symptoms, a test can be important, as gonorrhoea often progresses unnoticed.

How is gonorrhoea diagnosed?

Depending on the situation, a urine sample or material from the urethra, vagina, throat, or anus is examined. The collected material is tested in a laboratory for the presence of the gonorrhoea bacterium.

Modern laboratory tests are highly reliable when performed at the right time.

How is gonorrhoea treated?

If a test reveals gonorrhoea, treatment is initiated to eliminate the bacterium.

It is important to complete the treatment entirely and follow any advice from a doctor or healthcare provider. Additionally, it is advisable to inform recent sexual partners so they can also get tested.

What happens if gonorrhoea is not treated?

An untreated infection can lead to complications. In women, inflammation can occur in the uterus or fallopian tubes. In men, the epididymis can become inflamed.

Furthermore, a person remains contagious as long as the bacterium is present. Timely treatment helps to prevent complications and further spread.

Can you prevent gonorrhoea?

The risk of infection can be reduced by practicing safer sex and getting tested regularly if you are at risk.

Condoms significantly reduce the chance of transmission but do not offer complete protection. In case of symptoms or after risky sexual contact, a test is the best way to get clarity.

Frequently asked questions about gonorrhoea

Is gonorrhoea an STI?

Yes. Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium.

Can you have gonorrhoea without symptoms?

Yes. Many people are unaware of an infection.

Is gonorrhoea treatable?

Yes. When the infection is detected early, treatment is often very effective.

Can you get gonorrhoea again?

Yes. A previous infection does not provide protection against a new infection.

How do I know for sure if I have gonorrhoea?

Only a reliable gonorrhoea test can determine if the bacterium is present.

Are you in doubt? Get tested

Gonorrhoea does not always cause symptoms. Have you had unprotected sex or do you think you may have been at risk? A timely test can provide clarity. By detecting and treating an infection early, you reduce the risk of complications and prevent further spread of the infection.