If you’re considering getting tested for gonorrhea, you probably have a few questions—like what kind of sample you’ll give, how labs detect the infection, and how to understand your results.

This guide walks you through exactly what happens after you book a gonorrhea test with LabCafe.

What kind of sample will I need to provide?

The first step in getting tested for gonorrhea is collecting a sample. This depends on your symptoms, sexual history, and where the possible exposure occurred.

Sample types include:

• Urine sample: Most common. You'll be asked to provide a "first-catch" urine sample after not urinating for at least 2 hours.
• Swab sample: A clinician may take a swab from the throat, rectum, vagina, cervix, or urethra, depending on the exposure site.

Both collection methods are quick, safe, and minimally invasive. You’ll be in and out in minutes.

How do labs detect gonorrhea?

Once your sample reaches the lab, it undergoes NAAT—short for Nucleic Acid Amplification Test. This is the gold standard for gonorrhea testing.

Here’s why:

• Highly accurate: NAAT detects the genetic material (DNA) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria that causes gonorrhea.
• Works for all sample types: Whether it’s urine or a swab, NAAT is effective.
• Fast turnaround: Most results are ready within 1 to 3 business days.

Because of its accuracy and speed, NAAT is almost always the first test used.

Are there any follow-up tests I might need?

While NAAT is usually enough, sometimes your provider may recommend other tests; specifically, a culture test and/or a gram stain. 

Culture Test

• Why it’s done: If you still have symptoms after treatment or if your provider suspects antibiotic resistance.
• What it does: Grows the gonorrhea bacteria in a lab to determine which antibiotics are effective.
• Result time: Usually 2 to 5 days.

Gram Stain

• Who it’s for: Typically used for men who have symptoms.
• How it works: Detects bacteria under a microscope.
• Limitations: Less accurate for women and for infections in the throat or rectum. Should be followed up with NAAT.

What do my test results mean?

Knowing what your results mean is just as important as getting tested.

• Positive NAAT: You have a confirmed gonorrhea infection and need treatment.
• Negative NAAT: You likely don’t have gonorrhea, unless you were exposed very recently—in which case, a follow-up test might be needed.
• Positive Culture: Confirms infection and helps determine which antibiotic will work best.
• Gram Stain Positive: Suggests infection but is not a definitive diagnosis.

Your provider will review your results and advise on next steps.

Will I need to get tested again?

In certain cases, retesting may be necessary:

1. Throat infections: A test-of-cure is recommended 7–14 days after treatment.
2. Persistent symptoms: If symptoms don’t resolve after treatment, a second test is advised.
3. Public health monitoring: Some samples may be sent to public labs to track antibiotic resistance.

Your provider will determine the best follow-up approach based on your situation.

What kind of treatment is available for gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is usually treated with a single dose of antibiotics, typically given as an injection or oral medication. Treatment is effective, but it’s important to follow your provider’s instructions exactly.

Here’s what to expect after a positive test:

• Start treatment immediately. Prompt treatment prevents complications and reduces the risk of spreading the infection to others.
• Avoid sexual activity for 7 days. Wait until you and any recent partners have completed treatment.
• Tell your partner(s). They should get tested and treated, even if they don’t have symptoms.
• Follow up if symptoms continue. A second test or different medication may be needed.
• Consider retesting in 3 months. Reinfection is common, so many providers recommend a routine follow-up.

If the infection is resistant to first-line antibiotics, your provider may use results from a culture test to choose an alternative.

What does the full testing process look like?

1. Sample collected: Urine or swab from the exposure site.
2. NAAT performed: The most accurate and fastest test.
3. Culture used if needed: Confirms infection and checks for antibiotic resistance.
4. Gram stain in specific cases: A quick look for men with symptoms.
5. Results interpreted and treatment prescribed.

Why choose LabCafe for gonorrhea testing?

LabCafe makes gonorrhea testing easier than ever:

• Confidential and discreet ₻
• Same-day or next-day appointments
• Trusted, CLIA-certified labs

Need results quickly? Book your test at TheLabCafe.com today and get seen in as little as 24 hours.

Protect your health—getting tested is fast, easy, and the best way to stay safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How soon can I get tested after exposure?

Gonorrhea can take 2 to 7 days to show up on a test. Testing too early may lead to false negatives, so it’s best to wait at least a few days after potential exposure.

Can I get gonorrhea more than once?

Yes. Being treated once doesn’t protect you from future infections. Reinfection is common, especially if your partner hasn't been treated.

What happens if gonorrhea is left untreated?

Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased risk of HIV.

Can gonorrhea go away on its own?

No. Gonorrhea requires antibiotic treatment. The infection will not clear up without medication.

Is gonorrhea testing covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover gonorrhea testing as part of routine preventive care. Check with your provider or contact LabCafe for help verifying coverage.

Can I be tested for other STDs at the same time?

Yes. Most providers—including LabCafe—offer comprehensive STD panels that test for gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and more in one visit.