Gonorrhea {gon/or/EE/ah} is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium.
The infection can occur in the rectum, penis, cervix, throat, and sometimes the eyes.
It is also known as the "clap".
How do I get gonorrhea?
By having unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex with a person who has gonorrhea.
Can be spread with close sexual contact even without sexual penetration or ejaculation.
The infection can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
How do I know if I have gonorrhea?
Symptoms can appear 2 to 7 days after unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
Symptoms in Women
Symptoms in Men
most women have no symptoms
thick yellowish vaginal discharge
vaginal bleeding between periods or after sex
pain during sex
burning/pain when urinating (going to the bathroom)
rectal discharge, pain, or itching
throat or eye infection
most men have no symptoms
thick yellow/green pus from penis
painful/swollen testicles
itchiness on the inside of the penis
burning/pain when urinating
rectal discharge, bleeding, or itching
throat or eye infection
You can still be infected by a person who does not have any visible symptoms.
How do I get tested?
A urine test may be done.
A swab may be taken from the cervix, urethra, rectum, or throat.
A Pap test does not test for STIs.
How is gonorrhea treated?
Gonorrhea can be cured with a single treatment of medication.
Do not have sexual contact for 7 days after you and your partner are both treated.
You can be re-infected right after treatment.
Tell all your sexual partners within the last 60 days if you have an infection, so they can be treated too.
You should be re-tested within 4-6 months.
What if I do not treat the infection?
Gonorrhea can lead to joint, skin, heart, and brain problems, which can cause permanent damage.
The infection also increases your chance of becoming infected with HIV or spreading it.
Gonorrhea can be passed from a mother to her unborn baby and cause serious infections or blindness.
Women can develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is a painful lower abdominal infection that can lead to infertility.
Men can develop an infection of the prostate gland and swelling of the testicles. This can cause infertility.
How can I prevent the spread of gonorrhea?
Abstinence (not having sex) may be your best choice.
If you are being treated, do not have sex until 7 days after the medication is finished and the symptoms are gone.
Practice "safer sex". Always use condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Use a dental dam during oral sex on women.
Do not share sex toys.
Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
Ask your partner about his or her sexual history.
Get tested for STIs before having any sexual activity with a new partner.
If you think you have been infected with an STI, see a healthcare provider.
Tell your partner if you have an infection.
Do not have sex with an infected person. You cannot tell just by looking at the person.
Get information, guidance, and support.
Sexual Decision Making
You have the right to choose whether or not to have sexual intercourse.
If you choose to have sex, be sure to protect yourself from pregnancy and STIs.
Talk to your partner about these choices before you have sex!
Copyright & Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. If you have specific questions, please consult your doctor or appropriate health care professional.
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