What is it?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a type of bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is the second most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the UK, 70,936 new cases in 2019. If found and treated early, it is relatively easy to treat. However, can lead to serious long-term health problems. If left untreated in women it can spread to the womb and fallopian tubes, causing blocked tubes, long term pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. In men, untreated gonorrhea can cause a painful infection in the testicles and prostate gland.

About 50% of women and 10% of men don't experience any symptoms and are unaware they're infected. It’s important to get tested if you think you’re at risk. 

How do I get it? 

Gonorrhea is typically transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex by sexual fluids such as semen (cum), pre-cum and vaginal fluids. 

You can also get gonorrhea by touching your eye if you have infected fluids on your hand. Gonorrhea can also be spread to a baby during birth if the mother has it.

You CAN NOT catch gonorrhea from hugging, kissing, swimming pools, toilets, sharing towels or sharing cups, plates or cutlery.

If you’ve had unprotected sex, it’s important to get tested as about 50% of women and 10% of men don't experience any symptoms and are unaware they're infected.

If you have a vagina, gonorrhoea can cause

  • pain or a burning sensation when urinating

  • a vaginal discharge (often watery, yellow or green)

  • pain in the lower abdomen during or after sex

  • bleeding during or after sex or between periods, sometimes causing heavy periods.

If you have a penis, gonorrhoea can cause

  • pain or a burning sensation when urinating

  • a white, yellow or green discharge from the tip of the penis

  • pain or tenderness in the testicles.

It's also possible to have a gonorrhoea infection in your rectum (bottom), throat or eyes.

Gonorrhoea is diagnosed using a urine test or by taking a swab of the affected area.

If you have no symptoms and want a straightforward test you can order a smart kit online for home delivery
This is a quick, easy and confidential way to screen for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis

The infection is easily treated with an injection of antibiotics but can lead to serious long-term health problems if left untreated, including infertility.

  • Use condoms every time you have vaginal or anal sex. 

  • If you have oral sex, use a condom to cover the penis, or a dam (latex or plastic square) to cover the vulva or anus.

  • Avoid sharing sex toys, if you do share them wash them or cover them with a new condom before anyone else uses them.