How is it used?When is it requested?What does the test result mean?Is there anything else I should know?
The test is used in two ways:
- to diagnose the cause of symptoms, and
- to screen sexually active people.
A definitive diagnosis is important because gonorrhoea can resemble chlamydia, and the two disorders require different treatment.
A doctor may request the test if you have symptoms such as (for women) a yellow or bloody vaginal discharge, bleeding associated with vaginal intercourse, or burning/painful urination; or (for men) pus discharging from the penis or a burning sensation during urination.
What does the test result mean?
A positive test indicates an active infection that requires treatment with a course of antibiotics.
Is there anything else I should know?
Many people contract gonorrheoa without knowing it, because symptoms are very mild or even absent. If you test positive for gonorrhoea, you should also be screened for other
sexually transmitted diseases and your sexual partner(s) should be tested and treated as well.
If you are infected, your risk of contracting other sexually transmitted diseases increases, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
The diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease should not be ruled out if the test is negative; patients' clinical symptoms and history should also be considered.
