Gonorrhea

Also known as: GC, Gonococcus, Gonococcal infection, a sexually transmitted infections, sexually transmitted disease.

What is gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact. It can cause symptoms that impact the sexual organs as well as other areas of the body.

What causes gonorrhea?

The bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the direct cause of the disease. It’s spread through sexual contact involving the mouth, anus or genitals. Those who have unprotected sex with multiple partners are at the greatest risk.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?

The symptoms of gonorrhea differ between men and women. Men will often have pain and swelling in the penis and testicles, discharge from the penis and a frequent urge to urinate. Women may have a discharge from the vagina, pain while urinating and a frequent urge to urinate, painful sex, heavier periods and abdominal pain.

What are gonorrhea care options?

Gonorrhea can most often be treated and cured with antibiotics.


Reviewed by: Manuel Rafael Cotilla, MD

This page was last updated on: February 01, 2021 04:47 PM

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