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Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect the urethra, vagina or cervix, anus, throat and sometimes the eyes. Many people have no symptoms but can still pass on the bacteria. Get tested at the relevant sites, have sexual partners seek advice and use only treatment prescribed by a doctor, because resistance is a worldwide problem.

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  • Gonorrhoea is an STI caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The bacteria may be in the urethra, cervix, vagina, anus, throat and eyes. Several sites may be infected at once.
  • Many people notice nothing. An infection without symptoms can still be passed on and cause complications later. Looking or smelling alone is therefore not a reliable way to rule out gonorrhoea.
  • Testing must match the sexual contact. After oral or anal sex, a throat or anal swab may be needed alongside urine or a genital sample.
  • Antibiotics can cure gonorrhoea, but resistance is increasing worldwide. The doctor chooses treatment according to current local guidance and sometimes requests additional investigation or a follow-up test.
  • Have partners seek advice promptly and follow professional advice about when sex is safe again. Otherwise, partners may pass the infection back to each other.

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Further reading

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