Gonorrhea is caused by an infection with a specific type of bacteria called *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*. This bacterium primarily infects the moist mucous membranes of the body, such as those found in the urethra, vagina, rectum, throat, and eyes. The infection is almost always transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex, with an infected partner. The bacteria spread when these mucous membranes come into contact with infected bodily fluids during sexual activity.
The bacterium *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* is highly adapted to survive and multiply in these mucous membranes. It attaches to the cells lining these areas and invades them, causing inflammation and the symptoms associated with gonorrhea. Because the infection often affects mucous membranes, it can be transmitted even with relatively limited exposure to infected fluids. This makes gonorrhea a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection.
Gonorrhea can also be transmitted from a pregnant person to their baby during childbirth, leading to serious complications such as neonatal conjunctivitis, which can cause blindness if untreated.
The infection is most common in sexually active individuals, particularly those aged 15 to 24 years, but it can affect anyone who is exposed to the bacteria. The risk of transmission increases with multiple sexual partners, inconsistent or no use of barrier protection methods like condoms, and having a partner who is infected but asymptomatic.
In addition to sexual transmission, although rare, gonorrhea bacteria can infect other sites such as the throat and rectum, especially in populations engaging in oral or anal sex. These extragenital infections can serve as reservoirs for the bacteria, making detection and treatment more challenging.
The bacterium has developed resistance to many antibiotics over time, making treatment more complicated. This resistance arises due to genetic mutations within the bacteria and is exacerbated by factors such as inappropriate antibiotic use, overuse, and poor-quality medications. The spread of resistant strains is a growing public health concern worldwide.
In summary, gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, which infects mucous membranes primarily through sexual contact. Its ability to infect multiple sites, asymptomatic carriage, and increasing antibiotic resistance contribute to its persistence and spread. Preventing gonorrhea involves safe sexual practices, regular testing, and timely treatment of infected individuals and their partners.
