Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection spread through sexual contact and is one of the oldest recognized sexually transmitted diseases, caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. In men, symptoms may include a yellowish discharge along with itching and burning sensations. More than half of women with gonorrhea might not exhibit any symptoms. However, if symptoms do appear, they can involve burning or frequent urination, yellowish discharge, redness and swelling of the genitals, and itching or burning in the vaginal area. If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious infections and even infertility. Long-term complications may involve heart valve inflammation and eye infections. Additionally, gonorrhea can result in eye infections in newborns delivered by infected mothers. The condition is treatable with antibiotics.
