Neisseria gonorrhoeae Test: Symptoms, Positive/Negative Results & Guide

Overview

The Neisseria gonorrhoeae test, commonly called the Gonorrhea Test, is a diagnostic test used to detect an infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium responsible for the sexually transmitted infection (STI) gonorrhea. This infection commonly affects the genitals, rectum, throat, and sometimes the eyes. It spreads mainly through unprotected sexual contact.

Gonorrhea is one of the most common STIs worldwide and can cause long-term complications if left untreated. This test helps confirm whether the bacteria are present in the body so that appropriate treatment can start on time.

What Is Neisseria gonorrhoeae?

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a gram-negative bacterium that infects mucous membranes of the reproductive tract and other body areas. The infection is commonly spread through:

• Vaginal sex
• Anal sex
• Oral sex
• Sharing contaminated sexual devices
• Rarely, from mother to baby during childbirth

Unlike normal bacteria living harmlessly in the body, Neisseria gonorrhoeae is not naturally produced by the body. It only enters through sexual contact or direct exposure to an infected area.

Where Is It Produced or Found in the Body?

The human body does not produce this bacterium. Instead, it enters and grows in the following locations:

• Urethra (urine tube)
• Cervix
• Vagina
• Rectum
• Throat
• Eyes

These areas have mucous membranes that the bacteria easily attach to and infect.

Main Functions & Importance of the Test

The Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) test is extremely important in sexual health care. Here’s why:

1. Detects Active Gonorrhea Infection

The test confirms the presence of bacterial DNA or organisms in urine or swab samples.

2. Helps in Early Diagnosis

Early detection prevents the infection from spreading to reproductive organs or other parts of the body.

3. Prevents Complications

Untreated gonorrhea can lead to:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Infertility
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Increased risk of HIV
• Infection spread to joints, blood, or eyes

4. Controls Spread to Partners

Timely diagnosis helps prevent passing the infection to sexual partners.

5. Guides Proper Treatment

Accurate results help doctors prescribe the correct antibiotics since resistance to older medicines is increasing.

Causes of Low/Negative Levels

A negative result typically means no infection. However, low or negative levels may occur due to:

• No bacteria present
• Testing too early after exposure (incubation period is usually 2–7 days)
• Recent antibiotic use
• Improper sample collection

A negative result does not always guarantee absence of infection if symptoms exist.

Symptoms When Levels Are Low/Negative

Usually there are no symptoms, since negative means no infection.

But if the result is a false negative, symptoms may still appear, such as:

• Burning urination
• Genital discharge
• Rectal pain
• Sore throat

In such cases, repeat testing is recommended.

Causes of High/Positive Levels

A positive result indicates the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria in the tested sample.

Reasons include:

• Active current infection
• Recent unprotected sexual exposure
• Bacteria present in genital, throat, rectal, or urine sample

A positive result must be followed by immediate treatment to prevent complications.

Symptoms of High/Positive Levels

Symptoms vary for men, women, and infections at different sites.

In Men

• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• White, yellow, or green penile discharge
• Swollen or painful testicles
• Frequent urge to urinate

In Women

• Increased vaginal discharge
• Painful urination
• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Pain during intercourse

Women often have mild or no symptoms, making testing especially important.

In Both Genders

• Rectal Symptoms:
  Pain, discharge, itching, bleeding
• Throat Symptoms:
  Sore throat, swollen glands
• Eye Symptoms:
  Redness, swelling, pus-like discharge (gonococcal conjunctivitis)

If untreated, infection can spread to the bloodstream causing fever, rashes, and joint pain — a serious condition called disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI).

Reference Ranges

• Negative: No Neisseria gonorrhoeae detected
• Positive: Infection detected

There are no numerical ranges because the test is qualitative.

Sample Types Used

Depending on the suspected infection site, samples may include:

• Urine sample
• Cervical swab
• Vaginal swab
• Urethral swab
• Throat swab
• Rectal swab

Most doctors prefer NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) because it is the most sensitive and accurate.

Complications if Infection Is Not Treated

Untreated gonorrhea can cause:

• Infertility in both men and women
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Epididymitis in men
• Increased risk of HIV
• Infection of bloodstream and joints
• Eye infections in newborn babies

Timely treatment with antibiotics can prevent all these issues.

Test Preparation

• No fasting needed
• Do not urinate 1–2 hours before giving a urine sample
• Avoid using vaginal creams or douches for 24 hours
• Inform your doctor about antibiotics you’re taking
• Sexual abstinence for 24–48 hours before the test may improve accuracy

When to Consult a Doctor

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Unusual discharge
• Burning urination
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Sore throat after oral sex
• Rectal discomfort
• Eye redness with discharge

Also consult a doctor if:

• You had unprotected sex
• Your partner tested positive
• You are pregnant and suspect an infection

Important Word Explanations

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