Gonorrhea
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
In the US, nearly 1.6 million new gonorrhea infections each year, making it the second most commonly reported sexually transmitted infection. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates there were 82.4 million new gonorrhea infections in 2020 (among adults aged 15-49). Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection, and the bacteria can grow in your genital tracts, mouth, throat, eyes and anus. It is important to note that many people with gonorrhea do not experience any symptoms, particularly women. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals who are sexually active and at risk for gonorrhea get tested regularly, even if they do not have symptoms. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications and transmission to others. The first gonorrhea symptoms can appear within 10 days after exposure. However, some people may be infected for months before signs or symptoms occur. Women with gonococcal infections are often asymptomatic or may not show symptoms until complications like pelvic inflammation disease have occurred, leading to infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
Symptoms
In men, symptoms may include:
- •Thick, cloudy or bloody discharge from the penis
- •Pain when you pee or swollen testicles
In women, symptoms may include:
- •Vagina Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- •Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- •Pain when you have sex
Maternal and Newborn Health Risks
- •Miscarriage
- •Preterm labor
- •Premature membrane rupture
- •Low birth weight and eye infections in the newborn
Treatment
Gonorrhea may be cured with the right antibiotics. It is recommended to have follow-up testing 7 – 14 days after treatment to ensure the infection was treated successfully. This is because gonorrhea is becoming more difficult to treat as the bacteria has developed resistance to many antibiotics. Partners should also be tested and treated three months after initial treatment to avoid re-infection.
Prevention
The best way to prevent gonorrhea is to practice safer sex. This includes using condoms correctly and consistently during every sexual encounter, including oral, anal, and vaginal sex. People who are sexually active and have multiple partners should get tested for gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections regularly, even if they do not have symptoms.
Sources
- Written by Love Hurts, Inc. and Kecia Gaither, MD. on November 1, 2025
- CDC: “Gonorrhea -- CDC Fact Sheet”
- Mayo Clinic: “Gonorrhea”
- WebMD: “Gonorrhea”
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