Gonorrhea and UTIs (urinary tract infections) are two different bacterial infections that affect different parts of the urinary system. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It mainly affects the urethra, cervix, rectum and throat. UTIs are usually caused by E. coli bacteria and affect the urethra and bladder. Here is a quick overview of whether gonorrhea will show up on standard UTI tests:
Quick Answer
No, a standard UTI test will not detect gonorrhea. UTI tests look for the most common UTI-causing bacteria like E. coli. They do not test for sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea. The only way to test for gonorrhea is through a specific gonorrhea test.
UTI Tests vs. Gonorrhea Tests
There are some key differences between UTI and gonorrhea testing:
- UTI tests check for bacteria like E. coli that typically infect the urethra and bladder. Common UTI tests include a urinalysis and urine culture.
- Gonorrhea tests specifically look for the gonorrhea bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. These tests require swabs from the infected area (urethra, cervix, rectum, throat).
- UTI tests are done on urine samples. Gonorrhea testing requires a swab sample.
- The lab tests used to diagnose UTIs and gonorrhea look for completely different bacteria.
In summary, UTI testing does not include any testing for gonorrhea bacteria. The only way gonorrhea can be diagnosed is through specific gonorrhea testing.
When to Suspect Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea should be suspected if you have these risk factors or symptoms:
- Unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex, especially with new or multiple partners
- Past history of gonorrhea or other STIs
- Sexual partner was recently diagnosed with gonorrhea
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Increased vaginal discharge or penile discharge
- Bleeding between periods (women)
- Testicular pain or swelling (men)
- Rectal pain, discharge or bleeding
- Throat irritation
If gonorrhea is suspected, make an appointment right away for STI testing. Gonorrhea can cause serious complications if left untreated.
Getting Tested for Gonorrhea
Here are some key points about gonorrhea testing:
- Gonorrhea testing requires a swab sample from the infected area. This may include the urethra, cervix, rectum or throat.
- Urine tests and UTI tests cannot diagnose gonorrhea.
- Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are the most accurate gonorrhea tests.
- It may take 1-3 days to get gonorrhea test results back.
- Make sure your sexual partner(s) also get tested and treated if you test positive.
If your gonorrhea test is positive, your doctor will prescribe antibiotic treatment. It’s important to take all medication as directed and avoid sex for 1 week after treatment. Be sure to get retested 3 months after treatment.
Preventing Gonorrhea
To reduce your risk of gonorrhea:
- Use condoms correctly every time you have sex.
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Ask your partner(s) to get STI tested.
- Get tested regularly, especially if you have new partners.
Early detection and treatment of gonorrhea is key. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to see your doctor or visit a sexual health clinic for STI testing.
Conclusion
In summary, standard UTI tests do not check for gonorrhea. Gonorrhea can only be detected through specific gonorrhea testing. If you have symptoms or risk factors for gonorrhea, it is important to get tested right away. Getting diagnosed and treated early can help prevent complications and transmission to partners.