Gonorrhoea: Common, Treatable, and Nothing to Be Ashamed Of
West Midlands
Gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect anyone who’s sexually active. The good news? It’s treatable. But if it’s left unchecked, it can lead to serious health problems.
The thing is, a lot of people don’t notice any symptoms. That’s why regular testing is so important—it’s a simple way to take care of yourself and the people you care about.
Remember, your health matters, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
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Gonorrhea is an STI caused by a bacterial infection that affects the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is most common among young people aged 15 to 24, but it can affect anyone who is sexually active. If untreated, it can lead to serious complications, particularly for women.
You can contract gonorrhea through sex with someone who has the infection. A pregnant person can also pass the infection to their baby during childbirth, which can cause health issues for the newborn.
The best way to avoid gonorrhea and other STIs is to abstain from sex. If you’re sexually active, you can lower your risk by:
- Being in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative for STIs.
- Using condoms correctly every time you have sex.
Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhoea. Young people under 25 and those with new or multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk. Gay and bisexual men should be tested regularly, as should sexually active women, especially those with risk factors.
What are the steps?
1. Book an appointment
2. Get seen by a doctor
3. Do the test
Recognising Gonorrhoea Symptoms
Gonorrhoea often flies under the radar, with many people experiencing no symptoms at all. But when symptoms do show up, they can feel a little different for everyone.
In Women:
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Bleeding between periods
In Men:
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Discharge from the penis
- Occasionally, pain or swelling in the testicles
Rectal Infections (Men & Women):
- Discharge, itching, or soreness
- Bleeding or painful bowel movements
Even if you feel fine, gonorrhoea can still affect your health. Regular testing is a simple way to protect yourself and those you care about. We’re here to help you stay safe and healthy.
Gonorrhoea and pregnancy
If you’re pregnant, gonorrhoea can sometimes be passed to your baby during birth, which may cause health problems. The reassuring news? With testing and treatment during pregnancy, these complications can almost always be prevented.
Taking care of your health is one of the best ways to care for your baby. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
How Gonorrhoea is Diagnosed
Testing for gonorrhoea is quick and easy. Most of the time, it’s done with a simple urine test. If you’ve had oral or anal sex, your healthcare provider may take a gentle swab from your throat or rectum to be thorough.
Gonorrhoea & Chlamydia Test
We offer a combined Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia test using highly sensitive PCR technology. These two infections often occur together, so testing for both at once ensures accurate detection.
✔ Simple urine sample
✔ Same-day results
✔ Fast, discreet, and reliable
It’s a small step that makes a big difference in protecting your health and well-being.
Is there a cure for gonorrhoea?
Yes, gonorrhoea can be cured with the right antibiotics. Just be sure to take all your medicine as prescribed – it’s an important part of getting better.
In some cases, gonorrhoea may be harder to treat due to drug-resistant strains. If your symptoms stick around after treatment, don’t worry – just check back in with your doctor. We’re here to make sure you get the care you need to feel your best.
When can I have sex again after treatment?
Give yourself at least seven days after finishing treatment before having sex again. Make sure both you and your partner(s) complete treatment and feel symptom-free before getting back to it.
Because reinfection can happen, it’s a good idea to get retested about three months after treatment. These small steps go a long way in keeping you and your partner(s) healthy and safe.
Complications of untreated gonorrhoea
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In Women
- It can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, or ongoing pelvic pain.
- It can cause painful swelling in the tubes around the testicles and, in some cases, lead to infertility.
- The infection can spread to the blood or joints, which can be life-threatening.
Book your STi test now!
If you’re concerned about gonorrhoea or have had a recent sexual encounter, our team at OneMedicine is here to help with confidential testing and treatment. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications and protecting your health.
