What should you know about gonorrhoea in the throat?

Throat infection can follow oral sexual contact. Some people develop a sore throat, redness, swollen glands, or discomfort when swallowing, while others notice nothing unusual. A sore throat alone does not show that gonorrhoea is present; the exposure history and a suitable throat swab guide assessment.

An infection in the throat can still be passed to another person. It may also occur alongside infection at the genitals or rectum, so tell the clinician about every type of sexual contact.

Ask for STI screening and specifically mention oral exposure so the throat is included. Do not rely on a urine test alone when the throat is the exposed site. If testing confirms infection, take the prescribed antibiotic plan and attend any recommended follow-up.

Avoid oral, vaginal, and anal sex until your clinician says treatment is complete and partners have been assessed. Do not share drinks, toothbrushes, or other items that contact the mouth while you are waiting for advice.

Get urgent care for trouble breathing, inability to swallow fluids, rapidly worsening throat swelling, severe weakness, or eye symptoms. Contact a clinician promptly for persistent throat pain after a possible exposure or if symptoms continue after treatment.

Ask whether a throat swab is needed, which other sites should be tested, how partners will be contacted, and when sexual contact can safely resume.