How do you get gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The infection is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. Because many people experience few or no symptoms, gonorrhea can be unknowingly passed on to sexual partners.

By understanding how gonorrhea is transmitted, you can better assess when a test is advisable and how to reduce the risk of infection.

How is gonorrhea transmitted?

Gonorrhea is primarily transmitted during unprotected sex with someone infected with the bacterium.

Infection can occur through:

• Vaginal sex.
• Anal sex.
• Oral sex.
• Direct contact between infected mucous membranes.

The bacterium can be found in the urethra, cervix, anus, or throat. Depending on the sexual contact, an infection can occur in one or more of these places.

Can you get gonorrhea from oral sex?

Yes. Gonorrhea can be transmitted during oral sex.

This can lead to a throat infection. Many people with gonorrhea in the throat experience no symptoms, meaning the infection can be present unnoticed.

Can you get gonorrhea from anal sex?

Yes. The bacterium can also be transmitted during anal sex.

An anal infection does not always cause symptoms, but it can lead to itching, irritation, pain, or discharge.

Can you get gonorrhea without penetration?

In some situations, the bacterium can be transmitted through direct contact between infected mucous membranes.

However, the greatest risk is with unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

Can you get gonorrhea from kissing?

Kissing is not considered a common way for gonorrhea to be transmitted.

The bacterium mainly spreads through sexual contact involving infected mucous membranes.

Can you get gonorrhea multiple times?

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

Even after successful treatment, you can become reinfected if you come into contact with the bacterium again.

Who is at higher risk of gonorrhea?

Anyone who is sexually active can contract gonorrhea. The risk increases when:

• You have unprotected sex.
• You have multiple sexual partners.
• You have a new sexual partner.
• A partner is found to be infected.
• You do not get tested regularly despite being at risk.

Because gonorrhea often has no symptoms, many people do not know they are infected.

How can you reduce the chance of getting gonorrhea?

While no method offers complete protection, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

• Use condoms during vaginal and anal sex.
• Use protection during oral sex.
• Get tested regularly if you have multiple sexual partners.
• Inform sexual partners of a positive test result.
• Complete treatment fully and follow medical advice.

When is a test advisable?

A gonorrhea test is recommended if you have had unprotected sex, experience symptoms that may indicate an STI, or if a partner has tested positive for gonorrhea.

Even without symptoms, a test can be advisable, as an infection can be present unnoticed.

Frequently asked questions about how you get gonorrhea

Can you get gonorrhea from oral sex?

Yes. The bacterium can be transmitted during oral sex with an infected partner.

Can you get gonorrhea from kissing?

Kissing is not considered a common route of transmission for gonorrhea.

Can you get gonorrhea multiple times?

Yes. A previous infection does not protect against a new infection.

Can you have gonorrhea without symptoms?

Yes. Many people do not notice an infection.

Can one instance of unprotected sex be enough?

Yes. One unprotected sexual contact can be enough to contract a gonorrhea infection.

In doubt? Get tested

Because gonorrhea does not always cause symptoms, it is not possible to rule out an infection based on symptoms alone. Have you had unprotected sex or are you in doubt about a possible infection? Then a gonorrhea test can quickly provide clarity and help prevent further spread.