Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus. It used to be known as ‘the clap’.
The bacteria are mainly found in discharge from the penis and in vaginal fluid. Gonorrhoea is easily passed between people through:
- unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex
- sharing vibrators or other sex toys that haven’t been washed or covered with a new condom each time they’re used
The bacteria can infect the cervix (entrance to the womb), the urethra (tube through which urine passes out of the body), the rectum, and less commonly the throat or eyes.
The infection can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby. If you’re pregnant and may have gonorrhoea, it’s important to get tested and treated before your baby is born. Without treatment, gonorrhoea can cause permanent blindness in a new-born baby.
Gonorrhoea is not spread by kissing, hugging, sharing baths or towels, swimming pools, toilet seats, or sharing cups, plates and cutlery, because the bacteria can’t survive outside the human body for long.
Please click here for more information on gonorrhoea. If you think you may have gonorrhoea, come and see us.
Please click here for more information on Gonorrhoea.
Call us to book an appointment on 0208 887 3236.
