Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a bacteria that mainly infects the genitals, urethra, rectum and throat of men and women.

It is passed on by unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex, sharing sex toys, or by a mother to her baby at birth.
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 Signs and symptoms

Many people often experience no symptoms with gonorrhoea as symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed. Symptoms that can sometimes be experienced include

Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina that can be thin or watery, or yellow or green

• Pain when passing urine
• Possible irritation or discharge from the anus
• Lower abdominal pain
• Pain or tenderness in the testicles

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 Tests and treatment

• Usually a swab is taken from the vagina or tip of the penis and a sample of urine may be taken. The swab may feel a bit uncomfortable but should not be painful
• Gonorrhoea is easily treated with antibiotics. To avoid re-infection, sexual partners should also be treated.
• If untreated, gonorrhoea can infect other reproductive organs in men and women and lead to serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease or ectopic pregnancy, which can affect fertility.

For STI testing contact the Sexual Medicine Service on 01803 656500.