What Is Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It primarily affects the genitals, rectum, and throat, but it can also infect the eyes and urinary tract.
Both men and women can contract gonorrhea through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner.
Because symptoms can be mild or absent, many people don’t realize they’re infected—which makes regular testing crucial. Left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women and infertility in both sexes.
Gonorrhea Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?
Some people experience no symptoms at all, but when they do occur, they usually appear within 2 to 7 days after exposure.
In women, symptoms may include:
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Painful urination
- Bleeding between periods
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
In men, symptoms may include:
- White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Swelling or pain in one testicle
Throat or rectal infections may cause soreness, discharge, or discomfort, though these can also be symptom-free.
How is gonorrhea spread?
Gonorrhea spreads through sexual contact with the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus of an infected partner. It can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth, potentially causing serious eye infections in newborns.
Even if ejaculation doesn’t occur, gonorrhea can still be transmitted.
Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but consistent condom use and regular STI testing significantly reduce the risk.
Gonorrhea Statistics
Who is most at risk for gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea affects people of all ages, but it’s most common among:
- Individuals aged 15–29
- People with multiple sexual partners
- Those who do not consistently use condoms
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Individuals with a previous STI
Routine testing is recommended for sexually active women under 25 and anyone with new or multiple partners.
Gonorrhea Incidence by Age and Sex (U.S., 2023)
- Men: Approximately 240 cases per 100,000 population
- Women: Around 190 cases per 100,000 population
- Highest rates: Individuals aged 20–24 years old
- Rates are highest in the South and urban areas, according to CDC data
Young adults continue to drive the majority of new infections, underscoring the importance of accessible and routine STI screening.
Gonorrhea Treatment
Gonorrhea is curable with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. The current CDC-recommended treatment for uncomplicated gonorrhea is a single intramuscular injection of ceftriaxone (500 mg).
If a co-infection with chlamydia has not been ruled out, an oral antibiotic such as doxycycline (100 mg twice daily for 7 days) may also be prescribed.
Important treatment notes:
- Do not self-treat or rely on over-the-counter medication.
- Always inform and treat sexual partners to prevent reinfection.
- Avoid sexual contact for at least 7 days after completing treatment and until partners are treated.
- Follow up with a retest in 3 months to ensure the infection has cleared.
Drug-resistant gonorrhea is an emerging concern worldwide, so it’s essential to complete prescribed treatment and seek medical follow-up if symptoms persist.
Gonorrhea FAQs
Will gonorrhea go away?
Gonorrhea won’t go away on its own and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics to be cured. If left untreated, it can cause serious health problems, so it’s important to see a healthcare provider for testing and appropriate care.
What causes gonorrhea in men?
Gonorrhea in men is caused by the bacterium *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, which spreads through sexual contact with an infected person. It’s a common and treatable infection, so getting tested and seeking prompt treatment can help you stay healthy.
How long does it take for symptoms of gonorrhea to show?
Symptoms of gonorrhea typically appear within 2 to 7 days after exposure, but sometimes it can take up to 30 days. Keep in mind that many people don’t experience any symptoms at all, so getting tested is important if you think you might have been exposed.
Will 7 days of doxycycline cure gonorrhea?
No, 7 days of doxycycline alone will not cure gonorrhea. Gonorrhea typically requires treatment with specific antibiotics like an injection of ceftriaxone, often combined with oral doxycycline to address possible co-infection with chlamydia. Always see a healthcare provider for the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Is gonorrhea a lifetime STD?
No, gonorrhea is not a lifetime STD. It can be effectively treated and cured with the right antibiotics, especially when caught early. Prompt treatment helps prevent complications and reduces the risk of spreading the infection.
What are the first signs of gonorrhea?
Early signs of gonorrhea can include a burning sensation during urination, unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, and sometimes pain or swelling in the genital area. Many people, however, may not notice symptoms at first, so regular testing is important if you’re at risk.
What are the first signs of super gonorrhea?
Super gonorrhea often shows the same early signs as regular gonorrhea, like painful urination, increased discharge from the genitals, and swelling or redness. Because it’s resistant to many antibiotics, symptoms may persist longer or worsen if untreated, so it’s important to see a healthcare provider promptly for testing and proper treatment.
Why is gonorrhea called the clap?
The term “the clap” is believed to come from an old French word “clapier,” meaning brothel, where the infection was common. Another theory is that it refers to the old treatment of “clapping” or slapping the penis to expel discharge. Regardless of its origin, the name simply refers to gonorrhea, which is easily treated with proper medical care.
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