Gonorrhea Test

Three types of tests are used to determine if someone has gonorrhea. The first gonorrhea test is a swab sample, which is sent to the lab for testing. The second test is a urine test, which is also sent to the lab for testing. The third gonorrhea test is a Gram stain, which allows the doctor to see the bacteria under a microscope.

 

Gonorrhea Test: A Summary

There are three types of tests that are used to diagnose gonorrhea, which include:
 
  • Swab sample
  • Urine test
  • Gram stain.
 
(Click Diagnose Gonorrhea for more information about the processes used when diagnosing gonorrhea.)
 

Gonorrhea Test: Swab Sample

In this gonorrhea test, a swab sample from the part of the body that is likely to be infected (cervix, urethra, penis, rectum, or throat) can be sent to a lab for testing.
 

Gonorrhea Test: Urine Test

In this gonorrhea test, gonorrhea in the cervix or urethra can be diagnosed with a urine sample that is then sent to a lab for testing.
 

Gonorrhea Test: Gram Stain

A Gram stain is done right in a clinic or doctor's office. In this gonorrhea test, a sample from the urethra or cervix is placed on a slide and then stained with dye. A Gram stain allows the doctor to see the bacteria under a microscope. This test generally works better for men than for women.
 
Talk to your doctor about having a gonorrhea test if:
 
  • You have any gonorrhea symptoms
  • You think you or your partner could have gonorrhea
  • You know that your partner has gonorrhea.
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD