Types of Gonorrhoea

Genital gonorrhoea may cause burning when passing urine, discharge from the penis or vagina, pelvic discomfort, or pain or swelling in the testicles. A painful urination symptom can occur with gonorrhoea, but it can also have many other causes.

Rectal infection may cause soreness, discharge, bleeding or discomfort when opening the bowels. Throat infection often causes no noticeable symptoms, while eye infection can cause marked redness, swelling and discharge. A person can carry infection at more than one site, depending on sexual contact. Untreated infection can spread and may contribute to pelvic inflammatory disease.

Arrange STI screening if you have symptoms, a partner with gonorrhoea, or a recent sexual exposure that concerns you. Tell the clinician which kinds of sexual contact occurred so samples can be taken from the relevant sites; a urine sample or swab may be used.

Avoid sexual contact until a clinician advises that treatment is complete and partners have been assessed. Take prescribed antibiotic treatment exactly as directed, and do not share leftover medicine. Partners may need testing and treatment even when they feel well.

Seek prompt medical care for severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever, painful swollen testicles, or eye pain and vision changes. These features can signal a complication or infection at a site needing rapid treatment. If you are pregnant and may have been exposed, contact a clinician promptly.

Ask which body sites should be tested, whether recent partners need notification, when sexual contact can safely resume, and whether follow-up testing is needed.