What's worse gonorrhea or chlamydia?
Ava Arnold
Updated on March 12, 2026
Some complications of these STIs can happen to anyone. Others are unique to each sex due to differences in sexual anatomy. Gonorrhea has more severe possible complications and is more likely to cause long-term problems like infertility.
Is gonorrhea same as chlamydia?
Both infections are caused by bacteria. Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium while Chlamydia is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium. Any sexually active person can become infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia, but there are some factors that can increase the risk of contracting the infection.Is chlamydia or gonorrhea painful?
Painful, burning sensations in infected area – For both STDs, this is most common inside the vagina for women and the penal opening for men. Additionally, throat infections from oral sex are common and can result in swollen glands in the throat.What is untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea?
The two infections can also lead to PID and reproductive issues if left untreated. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to itching, soreness, and pain in the rectum, such as during bowel movements. Women with untreated gonorrhea may also experience prolonged, heavy periods and pain during intercourse.What does gonorrhea smell like?
And the women said about 50 percent of men who had gonorrhea had sweat that smelled "putrid," whereas only 32 percent of the healthy men were described as putrid. And while 26 percent of the healthy men smelled "floral," just 10 percent of those with gonorrhea were described that way.STI overview - Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphillis, Trichomonas, Herpes
Does gonorrhea have a smell?
Gonorrhea discharge can have an unpleasant, foul smell.How long does gonorrhea last untreated?
As for gonorrhea, one study found that most infections in 16 female subjects “did not appear to resolve spontaneously,” as most were still infected after two months.How long does gonorrhea take to heal?
It's sometimes possible to have an antibiotic tablet instead of an injection, if you prefer. If you have any symptoms of gonorrhoea, these will usually improve within a few days, although it may take up to 2 weeks for any pain in your pelvis or testicles to disappear completely.Does gonorrhea burn when you pee?
Gonorrhea symptoms in women are usually mild and can be easily mistaken for a UTI or vaginal infection. They can include: Pain or burning when you pee. The urge to pee more than usual.What kills chlamydia and gonorrhea?
To cure gonorrhea you are receiving cefixime (sometimes known as “Suprax”) or cefpodoxime (sometimes known as “Vantin”). The other is called azithromycin (sometimes known as “Zithromax”). It will cure chlamydia. Your partner may have given you both medicines, or a prescription that you can take to a pharmacy.What are 4 symptoms of gonorrhea?
Possible symptoms include:
- watery, creamy, or greenish vaginal discharge.
- pain or burning while urinating.
- an urge to urinate more frequently.
- heavier periods or spotting between periods.
- pain during penetrative vaginal sex.
- sharp pain in your lower abdomen.
- itching and soreness in your anus.
- rectal bleeding or discharge.