Quick Answer

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the only cause of gonorrhea.
  • The bacteria infect mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, throat, and rectum.
  • Many infected people have no symptoms, especially women.
  • Untreated gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
  • Antibiotic resistance is increasing, so ceftriaxone is the recommended first-line treatment.

Context Most Pages Skip

Gonorrhea is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Understanding what causes it goes beyond knowing the germ name — the real story is how this bacterium hijacks mucous membranes, evades the immune system, and is now evolving faster than some antibiotics can keep up. Knowing the cause helps you recognize risks, get tested, and choose effective treatment before complications set in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What std causes spotting?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

What organism causes gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

What are causes of gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

What microbe causes gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

What is claps std?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

What is the claps std?

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. No other organism or behavior causes this infection.

Related Questions

⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.

Sources & Further Reading

Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.