What should you know about gonorrhoea in pregnancy?

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection, and pregnancy does not always cause noticeable symptoms. Possible signs include painful urination, unusual discharge, pelvic discomfort or bleeding, but symptoms can have other causes. Infection can also be present in the throat or rectum depending on sexual contact.

Untreated infection may affect the reproductive tract and can be passed to a baby during delivery. This is why the pregnancy, exposure history, allergies and any current medicines should be shared openly with the clinician. Do not delay care because symptoms seem mild.

Contact your maternity team, GP or sexual-health service promptly. Testing may include urine or swabs from the body sites exposed. If gonorrhoea is confirmed, use the antibiotic prescribed for pregnancy and complete the instructions; never use leftover tablets or stop because symptoms improve.

Ask whether a follow-up test is needed and how to coordinate care before delivery. A current or recent partner may need confidential assessment and treatment. Avoid sexual contact until your clinician confirms the plan, because reinfection can occur.

Seek urgent maternity or medical care for severe lower abdominal pain, fever, heavy bleeding, faintness, contractions, leaking fluid, or feeling seriously unwell. Eye pain or vision changes also require urgent assessment. Tell staff immediately that you are pregnant and that gonorrhoea may be involved.

Ask which sites need testing, which treatment is suitable during pregnancy, whether your partner needs care, whether a follow-up test is planned, and what symptoms should send you to maternity triage. Ask how the result will be recorded in your pregnancy care plan.