Gonorrhoea

How can I catch Gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea can be passed on through vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

What are the symptoms?

Many people with gonorrhoea have no symptoms, it is important therefore to test regularly and when changing partners. When symptoms do occur in females they can cause changes in vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or irregular periods. They can also cause pain when urinating and discharge from the end of the penis in males.

How do I know if I’ve got it?

Testing is easy and includes a vaginal swab or a urine sample. Depending on your sexual history, you may also be offered rectal and throat swabs.

You can order order a postal STI test here or can find a clinic to get tested.

Gonorrhoea may take two weeks to show up in a test from the time of infection.

Can it be treated?

Yes. Gonorrhoea can be easily treated with antibiotics.

How can it be prevented?

• Condoms can help prevent gonorrhoea and are available at sexual health clinics.
• Testing each time you change your sexual partner can help reduce the spread of all STIs.

What will happen if I have gonorrhoea but I don’t get it treated?

It is possible for some women to experience long term problems from gonorrhoea, these include reduced fertility or an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. For men it can include infections in the testicles.

For more information on gonorrhoea click here