Causes and Diagnoses

Gonorrhea Causes and Diagnoses

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterial infection that’s transmitted by vaginal, anal or oral sex, or during a vaginal birth. The incubation period after exposure to gonorrhea is two to seven days before symptoms (if any) appear.

Diagnosing gonorrhea

A diagnosis of gonorrhea may begin with a physical exam (including a pelvic exam for women) and a discussion of your symptoms. Tests may include:

• Urine test: A sample of your urine is examined under a microscope for the presence of bacteria.
• Urine culture: A urine sample is stored in an environment that encourages bacterial growth to help identify what the infectious agent is.
• Other lab tests: Depending on your symptoms, a swab of fluid from your cervix, rectum, throat or eyes may be taken for study.

Your sample may be checked for the chlamydia infection at the same time.

If your physician suspects gonorrhea, do not have sex until:

• The test comes back negative

You have waited seven days after finishing your prescription for antibiotics