In men the infection usually starts an infection of the urethra. In women it usually first infects the cervix. The bacteria also commonly infects the throat and rectum during oral and anal sex.
Gonorrhea infection can be present without symptoms and therefore be unknowingly transmitted.
Symptoms usually develop within two to five days after exposure to an infected person but may develop any time between 2 to 30 days. Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotic drugs taken orally or by an injection. All partners must be treated. Treatment during early stages is usually 100 percent effective. A follow-up culture and examination are necessary because there have been cases of infection resistant to the usual treatment.