What is gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea, often known as the 'clap' is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria Gonorrhoeae. The bacterium grows and multiplies quickly in moist, warm areas of the body. Gonorrhoea can infect areas of the body such as the urethra, anus, rectum or throat.
The name gonorrhoea means 'flow of seed'.

What causes gonorrhoea & how can I avoid catching it?

Gonorrhoea is passed on through anal and oral sex, though sometimes it only takes physical contact to spread.
Like most sexually transmitted infections, gonorrhoea can be avoided by a consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activity.

What are the signs or symptoms of gonorrhoea?

The early symptoms of gonorrhoea are often mild. The symptoms of infection may show up at anytime between 1 and 14 days after exposure. Symptoms to look out for include:

• Discharge from the penis.
• Inflammation or dull pain in the testes.
• Burning sensation during urinating.
• Irritation or discharge from the anus.

How is gonorrhoea diagnosed?

The doctor will usually begin by examining your genital area and they will take a swab sample from the area which might be infected. The sample will then be analysed under a microscope to check for any infection. The doctor may ask you to give a urine sample as well.

What treatment is available for gonorrhoea?

The treatment of gonorrhoea is usually with antibiotics, taken by mouth. If you have gonorrhoea it is very important that your partner is also tested and treated even if they have no symptoms, otherwise you may find it will keep reoccurring.

A repeat test will usually be carried out after treatment to ensure the infection has gone.

How will gonorrhoea affect me in the future?

In men the main complication of untreated gonorrhoea is inflammation of the testes, which could lead to infertility problems. Rarely, untreated gonorrhoea can spread to the bloodstream and infect the joints.