Neisseria gonorrhoeae Antigen Test (Urinary)

This test is done to find out whether you have gonorrhea, a common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. Doctors order it when you have symptoms, after possible exposure to an infected partner, or as routine screening, because untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and a higher risk of passing the infection to others.

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, pain during urination, or bleeding between periods. It’s also used as a screening test for sexually active individuals at higher risk of gonorrhea, especially those with multiple partners or recent exposure.

Before the test, tell your healthcare provider about any medications you take and any antibiotics you have used recently, since these can affect results. If your test uses a urine sample, avoid urinating for at least one hour before the visit. No fasting or special preparation is needed, and the provider may also collect a swab from the throat, rectum, or cervix if needed.

No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely provide a urine sample in a clinic or lab setting. If you’re testing for gonorrhea in the throat or rectum, a swab may be used instead.

A positive result means the bacteria that cause gonorrhea were found, and you will need antibiotic treatment prescribed by your provider. Your provider may also test for other sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and HIV. A negative result usually means no infection was detected, but if you were exposed recently, repeat testing may be recommended because it can take time for the bacteria to appear.

A positive result means *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria are present, indicating gonorrhea. A negative result means the bacteria were not detected in this sample, but you may still need further testing if symptoms persist.

Many people with gonorrhea have no symptoms at all, which is why testing is so important. When symptoms do occur, men may notice burning during urination and discharge from the penis, while women may have increased vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, or pelvic pain. Infections in the throat or rectum may cause sore throat, discomfort, or discharge, but they are often silent.

Many people with gonorrhea don’t have symptoms, but when present, they may include unusual discharge, pain or burning during urination, or swelling in the genital area. Symptoms in men can be more noticeable than in women.