Gonorrhoea - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect both males and females and is usually spread through unprotected sexual contact. Gonorrhoea most commonly affects the genitals, but it can also infect the throat and eyes. Symptoms might include pain when urinating, unusual discharge from the genitals, and pain in the lower abdomen, though some people might not have any symptoms. If left untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to serious health problems like infertility. It is important to get tested and treated with antibiotics if infected, to prevent spreading the infection and serious complications.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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