Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects sexually active people of all genders. If left untreated, it can cause serious health complications. Gonorrhea can cause infection in the rectum, throat, and genitals.
Gonorrhea is known colloquially as "the clap" or "a dose of the clap."
Gonorrhea can be transmitted through oral, vaginal, and anal sex. In many cases, the infection goes undetected by infected persons and can lead to more serious health complications if left untreated. Symptoms include unusual discharge from the penis, anus, or vagina; pain during urination; or burning in the throat.
Gonorrhea can easily be treated, but treatment cannot reverse any damage that has already been done by the disease. In immuno-compromised individuals, there is an increased risk that untreated gonorrhea will develop into the HIV virus that causes AIDS. To avoid contracting gonorrhea it is important to practice safer sex by using condoms and dental dams.
