Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the genitals, rectum, throat and eyes. Many people have no symptoms, which is why testing can be important after possible exposure.
Possible Symptoms
- yellow, green or white genital discharge
- pain or burning when urinating
- bleeding between periods or pelvic pain
- testicular pain or swelling
- rectal pain, discharge or bleeding
- sore throat after oral exposure
Testing and Treatment
Testing may use urine or swabs from the sites that were exposed. Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics selected according to current clinical and antimicrobial resistance guidance. Follow the treatment instructions and complete any recommended follow-up or test of cure.
Recent sexual partners may also need confidential notification, testing and treatment. Testing for other sexually transmitted infections can be recommended at the same time.
Preventing Transmission
Avoid sexual contact until treatment has been completed and the recommended waiting period has passed for you and relevant partners. Condoms and other barriers reduce the risk of transmission but do not eliminate it completely.
Possible Complications
Untreated gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, chronic pelvic pain and epididymitis. In uncommon cases, the infection can spread through the bloodstream and affect the joints or other parts of the body. Gonorrhea can also be transmitted to a baby during childbirth and may cause serious eye infection.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek urgent medical assessment for severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fever with joint pain or rash, a swollen and painful testicle, significant symptoms during pregnancy, or eye pain, redness and discharge. A newborn with eye swelling or discharge needs prompt medical assessment.
Related Topics
Sources and Further Reading
Last reviewed: 4 September 2026. This information does not replace individual medical assessment or treatment.