Bacteria are introduced during sexual contact and adhere to the mucosal surfaces of the genital tract where they multiply prior to invading the submucosal tissues. The result is inflammation. In males, the infection is typically symptomatic and the patient presents with urethritis and discharge. In contrast, many females may be infected without experiencing clinical symptoms. The sequelae of untreated gonorrhea are very serious and include pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
Untreated gonorrhea remains one of the leading causes of sterility in women of child-bearing age.