Neisseria gonorrhoeae vaginal culture (qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea, in your vaginal fluids. It helps determine if you have an infection that may require treatment.
["A positive result means you may have gonorrhea; a negative result means the bacteria were not detected in this sample."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 693-2
- Short code
- N gonorrhoea Vag Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- N gonorrhoea Vag Ql Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
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 for screening in sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or recent exposure to gonorrhea.
How the Test Works
A swab is gently collected from your vagina to gather a sample of vaginal fluids. The swab is then sent to a lab, where it’s cultured to identify if *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria are present. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than quantifying the amount of bacteria.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may shower or clean your genital area before the test, but avoid using vaginal products (like deodorants or douches) that day. Wear comfortable clothing and let your provider know if you’re pregnant or have any allergies to swabs or lab materials.
What to Expect During the Test
The swab is inserted gently into your vagina, and you may feel a slight pinch or discomfort. It usually takes only a few seconds. The procedure is quick and doesn’t require anesthesia.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive culture confirms gonorrhea, which can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or complications during pregnancy if untreated. It’s also important for partners to be treated together to prevent reinfection. A negative result means the bacteria were not detected in this sample, but symptoms could still indicate other infections.
Short name
Gonorrhea vaginal culture
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I have sex while waiting for results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy