Gonorrhea Test

Gonorrhea Test

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD), which is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner, and can cause pain, discharge, itching, and more serious complications. A gonorrhea test is an important preventative measure to identify if someone has the infection and prevent spreading it to other people.

Why get tested?

It is important to get tested for gonorrhea to both protect yourself from the infection and to reduce the risk of spreading it to others. An early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing serious health complications.

When to get tested?

Anyone who is sexually active should get tested for gonorrhea regularly, especially if they have had unprotected sex. People who have had more than one sexual partner in the past year should get tested at least once a year or more.

Preparation for a gonorrhea test

The preparation for a gonorrhea test will vary depending on the test used. For a urine test, no special preparation is usually necessary. It is important to avoid urinating for at least 30 minutes before the test. For a swab test, it is important to abstain from sexual intercourse and douching for 24 hours before the test.

Types of gonorrhea tests

Gonorrhea tests are usually done using a urine sample or a swab sample from the cervix, urethra, or rectum. A urine sample is usually preferred because it is easy to collect, and tests done with it are more accurate than swab tests. However, some infections may not be detected using a urine sample, so a swab test can be used for a more accurate diagnosis.

Risk of gonorrhea test

• Some people experience discomfort during a swab test.
• There is a very small risk of infection from a swab test if the equipment is not properly sterilized.
• There is a risk of false-positive results if the sample is contaminated by something else that may have bacteria present.

Cost of testing?

The cost of gonorrhea testing can vary widely depending on the type of test used, the laboratory used, and the doctor's office visit fees. Most insurance companies cover the cost of the test if it is ordered by a doctor.