Gonorrhoea is a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection that can infect the genitals, rectum, throat and eyes. Many women and some men have no symptoms. It’s diagnosed with a urine test or swab and usually treated with an antibiotic injection. Because gonorrhoea has become resistant to many antibiotics worldwide, testing, correct treatment and follow-up are especially important.
Symptoms
Men
- Thick yellow or green discharge from the penis
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Pain or swelling in the testicles (less common)
Women
- Often no symptoms
- Unusual vaginal discharge (thin or watery, green or yellow)
- Pain when urinating
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Lower abdominal pain
Other sites
Rectal infection can cause discomfort or discharge; throat infection usually has no symptoms.
Testing
- Urine test or swabs depending on sexual practices
- Available at sexual health clinics, GPs and some pharmacies or home kits
- Test about 2 weeks after possible exposure, or sooner if symptoms appear
Treatment
- Usually a single antibiotic injection (often ceftriaxone), sometimes with other antibiotics depending on local guidance
- Avoid sex until you and your partners have been treated and symptoms have cleared, usually for at least 7 days
- A test of cure is often recommended, especially for throat infections or if symptoms persist
- Partners from recent months should be tested and treated
Complications if untreated
- Pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility
- Epididymitis in men
- Eye infection in newborns born to infected mothers
- Rarely, spread to the blood and joints
Antibiotic resistance
WHO lists drug-resistant gonorrhoea as a serious global threat. Strains resistant to several antibiotics have been reported in many countries. Never self-treat with leftover antibiotics, and always return for follow-up if advised.
Prevention
- Use condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex
- Test regularly with new partners
- Get treated together with partners
Frequently asked questions
Can gonorrhoea go away by itself?
No reliable evidence it clears safely without treatment. Get tested and treated.
Related reading: Chlamydia guide · Antimicrobial resistance
Checked against NHS guidance on gonorrhoea and WHO information. Updated 5 November 2026.