Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria that can infect the genitals, rectum, or throat. It can affect people of any gender or age who are sexually active.

It spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who already has the infection. Sharing unclean sex toys can also pass it from one person to another.

Some people have no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include burning during urination, unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, pelvic or abdominal pain, or pain during sex.

Yes. It can infect the rectum, causing pain or discharge, and the throat, sometimes leading to a sore throat that doesn’t go away.

Absolutely. Many people don’t feel sick or notice any changes, which is why regular sexual health screenings are important.

If left unchecked, gonorrhea can cause serious health problems such as infertility, long-term pelvic pain, or infections that spread to other parts of the body.

No. The infection will not clear up on its own. It must be eradicated with prescriptive medication. Ignoring it can lead to lasting damage to the reproductive system and other health issues.

Yes. Even after the infection has been cleared, a person can become infected again if exposed through unprotected sex with an infected partner.

No. It doesn’t spread through hugging, kissing, sharing food, or sitting on toilet seats. It spreads only through sexual contact.

Yes. In women, it can lead to scarring in the fallopian tubes, which may block pregnancy. In men, it can cause inflammation in the testicles that affects sperm production.