References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Gonorrhoea testing is quick and accurate using modern nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT). A urine sample or swab can identify the infection within days. If you’re sexually active with new partners or have symptoms like unusual discharge or burning when urinating, testing is straightforward and free through NHS sexual health services.
Here’s what to expect.
Order a discreet home STI test
Who Should Test?
- Anyone with symptoms like discharge or burning on urination
- Sexually active adults with new partners
- Men who have sex with men (every 3 months if at higher risk)
- People whose partners have tested positive
- As part of a routine STI screen
Sample Types
| Who | Sample |
|---|---|
| Men | First-catch urine |
| Women | Vaginal self-swab or clinician swab |
| Anyone with oral sex | Throat swab |
| Anyone with receptive anal sex | Rectal swab |
Multi-Site Testing Matters
Gonorrhoea can infect the urethra, throat, rectum, eye and cervix. Urine testing alone misses throat and rectal infections. If you’ve had oral or anal sex, specifically ask for those sites to be swabbed.
Testing Options
- NHS sexual health clinic — free, walk-in or appointment
- Home test kit — free through many NHS services or paid commercially
- GP surgery — free testing available
- Private clinic — paid but often faster
When to Test After Exposure
- Modern NAATs can detect gonorrhoea from 1-2 weeks after exposure
- If symptoms develop sooner, test immediately
- Retest 2 weeks later if the first test was within the window period
Results
Results are usually ready within 2-5 days. The clinic or service will contact you with the outcome. Positive results are treated promptly and confirmed with follow-up when needed.
Treatment
- Ceftriaxone 1g intramuscular injection
- Single dose, usually at the clinic
- Avoid sex for 7 days after treatment
- Partners should be tested and treated
- Test of cure recommended for throat infection
Resistance Concerns
Gonorrhoea has developed resistance to many antibiotics over the years. Ceftriaxone is the current mainstay but is being closely monitored. Early testing, proper treatment and responsible antibiotic use all matter.
Read more: What is gonorrhoea? | Gonorrhoea rapid tests | Gonorrhoea treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after exposure can I test?
1-2 weeks is reliable with modern tests.
Does standard testing include throat and rectum?
Not always. Ask specifically if you’ve had oral or anal sex.
Is testing free?
Yes through NHS sexual health services.
Related reading
- Comprehensive Test: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and Herpes
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Lab Test
- Gonorrhoea Rapid Tests: What to Know
- Home Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Tests: How They Work
- Lab Test for Gonorrhoea
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
