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Gonorrhoea

Also called The clap

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex and can be passed from a mother to her baby during birth. Many people, especially women, have no symptoms.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

It is usually treated with an antibiotic injection. A test afterwards checks it has gone, because some strains are resistant to antibiotics.

Untreated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, problems with fertility, and painful testicles.

Common signs

  • Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis
  • Pain when peeing
  • Bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Pain in the testicles
  • Often no symptoms

How it is usually diagnosed

  • A urine test or swab at a sexual health clinic

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Test results
  • Treatment dates
  • Follow-up test results

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Do my partners need testing too?
  • When can I have sex again?
  • Do I need a test to check it has gone?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Severe tummy pain with fever, or painful, swollen testicles: get urgent medical help

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

ChlamydiaOne of the most common sexually transmitted infections. It often has no symptoms and is easily treated with antibiotics.Pelvic inflammatory diseaseAn infection of the womb, fallopian tubes or ovaries, often from a sexually transmitted infection. Early antibiotics prevent problems.EpididymitisSwelling and pain in the tube at the back of the testicle, usually caused by an infection. It is treated with antibiotics.