Gonorrhoea Testing

Gonorrhoea testing usually involves either a urine sample or swab, depending on the area being tested and the type of sexual exposure.

For many men, testing commonly involves a urine sample. For women, a self-taken vaginal swab is often recommended. Depending on symptoms and exposure, throat, rectal, or eye swabs may also be advised.

Samples are analysed using highly sensitive PCR (NAAT) technology to detect the genetic material of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhoea.

Preparing for a gonorrhoea test is usually simple and depends on the type of sample being taken.

If you may need to provide a urine sample, avoid passing urine for at least 1–2 hours before your appointment, as this can improve test accuracy. If a vaginal swab is needed, avoid using internal vaginal products such as douches or treatments for 24 hours beforehand.

It can also help to think about:

• When you may have been exposed
• Any symptoms you have noticed
• Which areas may have been exposed (genitals, throat, or rectum)

This helps ensure the correct samples are taken, as gonorrhoea can affect different parts of the body.

If you are testing for documentation purposes, such as visa or employment requirements, you may be asked to bring photo identification.

The window period for gonorrhoea is the time between exposure and when the infection can be reliably detected.

PCR (NAAT) tests may detect gonorrhoea as early as 2–7 days after exposure, but testing from 14 days onwards provides the most reliable result. Testing too early may increase the chance of a false negative.

If you have symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain when passing urine, or pelvic discomfort, seek medical advice sooner rather than waiting for the full window period. If you test very early and receive a negative result, repeat testing may sometimes be recommended after 14 days.

Modern gonorrhoea testing usually uses Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT), commonly known as PCR testing.

This method detects the genetic material (DNA) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhoea. A urine sample or swab is analysed to identify even very small amounts of bacterial DNA.

Because PCR testing can detect low levels of infection, it is highly sensitive and accurate and often provides results more quickly than traditional culture methods.

Gonorrhoea PCR (NAAT) testing is highly accurate when performed after the recommended window period and from the correct sites of exposure.

Accuracy may vary depending on the timing of testing, and whether the infection is located in the genitals, throat, or rectum.

No test is 100% accurate, which is why repeat testing or additional culture testing may occasionally be recommended in certain situations.

Testing is generally most reliable from around 14 days after potential exposure.

However, if you have symptoms or a sexual partner has tested positive for gonorrhoea, testing should be arranged as soon as possible.

Regular sexual health screening is recommended for people with new or multiple partners, particularly where condomless sex occurs.

A physical examination may be offered if you are experiencing symptoms, particularly if there are concerns about complications or alternative diagnoses.

Any examination is entirely optional, and your clinician will explain the reasons for recommending it before proceeding.

Yes. Gonorrhoea testing can vary based on both the type of test and the area of the body being tested.

Different sample types may be needed depending on exposure, including urine samples or swabs from the genitals, throat, or rectum. A urine test alone may not detect infections in the throat or rectum, so testing the correct site is important.

There are also different testing methods. PCR (NAAT) tests are most commonly used because they are highly accurate and can detect infection earlier than traditional culture tests. In some cases, a culture test may also be recommended, particularly if antibiotic resistance is a concern.

You can receive your test results by either text or email.

Results are usually reported as:

• NOT Detected — no gonorrhoea was identified in the sample tested
• DETECTED — gonorrhoea genetic material was identified in the sample

Occasionally, a result may be reported as equivocal or inconclusive, meaning the laboratory could not confirm a clear result from the sample provided. If this occurs, repeat testing may be recommended, usually at no additional charge.

It is advisable to avoid sexual contact or use condoms consistently while waiting for your results, particularly if you have symptoms or recent exposure.

Your clinician may recommend additional precautions depending on your symptoms, exposure history, or whether treatment has already been started.

If your gonorrhoea test is positive, appropriate treatment and follow-up will be arranged.

You will be advised on treatment, partner notification, and whether any additional testing or follow-up is recommended. Our team can support you through the next steps and answer any questions you may have.

It is strongly recommended that current and any sexual partners within last 3 months are informed if you test positive for gonorrhoea.

This allows partners to access testing and treatment where needed and helps reduce the risk of reinfection or further transmission.

Yes. Along with a text or email of your Gonorrhoea test results, we can email a certificate for official purposes. You will need to bring along your passport or driving licence for proof of identity.