What Is Gonorrhea Testing — A Simple Guide
Gonorrhea testing checks whether someone is infected with Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes Gonorrhea — a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Because gonorrhea often shows no noticeable symptoms, testing is the only reliable way to know if it’s present.
Cleveland Clinic
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✅ How the Test Works
A sample is collected either by urine or by a swab from the part of the body that may be infected (genitals, throat, or rectum).
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Mayo Clinic
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The most accurate modern method is called NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test), which looks for genetic material of the bacteria. It can be done using urine or swab samples.
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University of Rochester Medical Center
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In some special cases — such as when treatment fails — labs may do a culture and sensitivity test to identify the bacteria and determine which antibiotics will work.
Kaiser Permanente
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CDC
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🔎 What’s New and Trending
More accurate testing: NAAT continues to be preferred because of high sensitivity and specificity, even when infections don’t show symptoms.
APHL
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PMC
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Broader testing sites: It’s easier now to test not only genitals but also throat or rectum — important because gonorrhea can infect areas beyond the genital tract.
Cleveland Clinic
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Stay STI Free
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Better follow-up for treatment-resistant cases: Labs now offer antimicrobial-susceptibility testing if standard treatment fails, helping identify resistant strains and guide therapy.
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Emphasis on regular screening: Since many infections are silent, routine testing is more and more recommended — especially for individuals with multiple partners or potential exposure.
Stanford Health Care
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ACOG
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🌟 Why It Matters
Getting tested for gonorrhea helps catch the infection early — even if you feel totally fine. Early detection means prompt treatment, which can prevent serious complications (like infertility or spread to other body parts). It also stops unknowingly transmitting the infection to others.
Gonorrhea testing is a simple, effective way to protect your health and that of your partners — so regular screening is a good idea when there’s any risk.