A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect various parts of the body, commonly the genital tract, rectum, and throat.
Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect multiple areas of the body, including the genital region, rectum, and throat. Because the infection does not always cause noticeable symptoms, many people may be unaware they are infected and can unknowingly pass it to others.
How Gonorrhea Spreads
Gonorrhea is transmitted through sexual contact, including:
- Vaginal intercourse
- Anal sex
- Oral sex
The infection spreads when the bacteria enter mucous membranes in areas such as the cervix, urethra, rectum, or throat. It cannot be transmitted through casual contact, touching, or sharing toiletries.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Prompt testing and treatment are essential because:
- Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased risk of HIV.
- People with gonorrhea can easily transmit the infection even if symptoms are mild or absent.
- The bacteria can develop antibiotic resistance, making proper treatment crucial.
Routine STI screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with new or multiple partners.
Genital Symptoms
Genital infections may cause symptoms that differ between men and women. However, many cases remain asymptomatic. Common signs include:
- Painful or burning sensation when urinating
- Unusual genital discharge, often yellow, green, or cloudy
- Genital itching or irritation
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain(especially in women)
- Testicular pain in men, in some cases
Rectal Symptoms
Rectal gonorrhea may develop after receptive anal sex and can cause:
- Rectal discharge
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain during bowel movements
- Soreness or bleeding (less common)
Many people have no rectal symptoms at all.
Throat Symptoms
Gonorrhea of the throat (pharyngeal gonorrhea), often caused by oral sex, may cause:
- Sore throat
- Redness or irritation in the throat
- Swollen glands(in rare cases)
Most throat infections are silent and discovered only through testing.
Prevention and Treatment
- Condom use and safer sex practices significantly reduce the risk of infection.
- Regular screening helps detect infections early.
- Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
Anyone experiencing symptoms—or who has had contact with a confirmed case—should seek medical evaluation promptly.
