Gonorrhea Urine Test in California

What this test measures

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the urethra, cervix, rectum, throat, and eyes, and many people have no noticeable symptoms. Because it often spreads without signs, routine screening is important for sexually active people and their partners.

The urine test uses nucleic acid amplification testing, often shortened to NAAT, to detect the bacterium's DNA or RNA. A first-catch urine sample, meaning the first part of the stream, is generally preferred because it concentrates organisms from the urethra. A single sample can also be tested for chlamydia at the same time when the order includes both.

A negative result reflects the sample at the time it was collected, and the window period after exposure matters, so testing too early can miss an infection. A positive result should be discussed promptly with a healthcare provider, who can recommend confirmatory testing, treatment, and partner notification as appropriate.