Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection.

How do you get gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is usually passed on through unprotected sex, including vaginal, anal or oral sex.

What are the symptoms?

Gonorrhoea often causes no symptoms.

If you do have symptoms, you may notice:

• Discharge from the penis, vagina or anus.
• Pain or burning when you pee.

Gonorrhoea in the throat usually causes no symptoms.

How is gonorrhoea treated?

Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotics. Your healthcare professional will advise you about the treatment you need.

What happens if gonorrhoea is not treated?

Sometimes, untreated gonorrhoea can cause complications.

For women, this can include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). [Link to information about PID.]

For men, it can cause serious swelling and pain in the testicles.

What about my sexual partners?

Your current sexual partners should have a test and receive treatment if needed.

You should also tell previous sexual partners that they may have been exposed to gonorrhoea. Our staff can talk to you about how to do this and can help you notify them.

My sexual partner has gonorrhoea. What should I do?

Contact our service to arrange a test. In some cases, you may also need treatment.

Call 0131 536 2108 to arrange an appointment or speak to a member of our team.