Gonorrhea Test Test
A gonorrhea test checks for signs of a gonorrhea bacterial infection in a sample of your urine or body fluid. It helps diagnose or screen for this common sexually transmitted infection.
What this test measures
A gonorrhea test looks for signs of a gonorrhea bacterial infection in a sample of your urine (pee) or saliva. The sample may be taken from the urethra, cervix, vagina, throat, or rectum, depending on where the infection may be.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
A positive (or abnormal) test result means that you are infected with the gonorrhea bacteria. You will need treatment with antibiotics right away.
Lower-than-normal results
A negative (or normal) test result means that a gonorrhea infection wasn't found in your sample. But it doesn't rule out gonorrhea, as the test may have been taken too soon after exposure.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gonorrhea test?
A gonorrhea test looks for signs of a gonorrhea bacterial infection in a sample of your urine or body fluid.
How is the sample collected?
The sample may be taken from the urethra, cervix, vagina, throat, or rectum, depending on where the infection may be.
Why might I need a gonorrhea test?
You may need a test if you have symptoms, or if you were exposed to gonorrhea but have no symptoms. Testing helps catch the infection early.
What does a positive test result mean?
A positive test means you are infected with gonorrhea bacteria and need treatment with antibiotics right away.
Can a negative test rule out gonorrhea completely?
No, a negative test does not completely rule out gonorrhea because it may take weeks after exposure to test positive.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Gonorrhea Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.