Neisseria Gonorrhoeae - PCR

The test is performed by collecting a swab sample from the patient's throat, rectum, or genital area, depending on where the infection is suspected. This sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

This test is recommended for anyone who has symptoms of gonorrhea or has been exposed to a sexual partner with the disease. It is also often performed as part of a broader sexually transmitted disease screening in individuals with high-risk sexual behaviors.

Symptoms in men can include a burning sensation when urinating, discharge from the penis, or painful or swollen testicles. In women, symptoms can include a painful or burning sensation when urinating, increased vaginal discharge, or vaginal bleeding between periods. However, many people with gonorrhea don't have any symptoms at all.

The PCR test is highly accurate at identifying the presence of Neisseria Gonorrhoeae, with few false positives or negatives. It is also able to detect the bacterium even in the early stages of infection, making it an effective tool for early diagnosis.

Gonorrhea can usually be treated with antibiotics. It's crucial to complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Additionally, it's important to notify all recent sexual partners so they can be tested and treated as well, if necessary.

The most reliable way to avoid infection is to abstain from sexual contact or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected. The use of condoms correctly and consistently every time you have sex can also greatly reduce the risk.

If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems. In women, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. In men, it can lead to epididymitis, an inflammation of the tube at the back of the testicle, which can also lead to infertility. Gonorrhea can also increase the risk of getting or giving HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

No, the test requires a sample to be collected by a healthcare professional. However, the sample collection procedure is quick and straightforward.

Yes, gonorrhea can be cured with the right treatment, usually antibiotics. However, it's important to note that while treatment can clear the infection, it will not repair any permanent damage done by the disease. This is why early detection and treatment are crucial.

Yes, having gonorrhea once does not protect you from getting it again. Even after successful treatment, you can still be reinfected if you have unprotected sex with an infected person.

The test may cause mild discomfort but should not be painful. If you experience severe pain during the sample collection, let your healthcare provider know immediately.

The turn-around-time is typically 1-2 days. However, this can vary depending on the laboratory.

If your test result is positive, it means you have a gonorrhea infection. Your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with you, which will usually involve antibiotics.

Yes, pregnant women can take the test. In fact, it's essential for pregnant women to get tested as gonorrhea can cause complications in pregnancy, including preterm birth and low birth weight. It can also be passed on to the baby during delivery, causing serious health problems.

No, gonorrhea will not go away on its own. It requires treatment with antibiotics. Without treatment, the infection can persist and lead to serious health complications.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a technique used in the lab to make millions of copies of a particular section of DNA. In the case of this test, the DNA of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium is targeted. The mass amplification of the target DNA allows for easy detection and identification, making PCR a highly sensitive and accurate testing method.

Yes, this test is often included in routine sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings, particularly for individuals who have multiple sexual partners, new sexual partners, or are in other high-risk groups.

While the PCR test is highly accurate, no test is 100% perfect. There can be rare instances of false-positive or false-negative results. For example, a false positive might occur if the sample gets contaminated, while a false-negative might happen if the bacterial count in the sample is too low to detect.

The test itself is generally safe with minimal risks. Some people might experience slight discomfort or light bleeding during or after the sample collection. If the bleeding continues or if you feel severe pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

If you have symptoms of gonorrhea but your test result is negative, it could mean that you have another type of infection. It's important to discuss your symptoms and test results with your healthcare provider, who can guide you on the next steps.

No, there are no specific sexual activity restrictions before the test. However, if you are experiencing symptoms of an STI, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity to prevent potentially passing the infection to others.

No, the Neisseria Gonorrhoeae PCR test is specific to gonorrhea. However, you can be tested for other STIs at the same time, if required. Your healthcare provider can guide you on which tests are appropriate based on your symptoms and risk factors.

The most effective way to prevent gonorrhea and other STIs is by using a condom every time you have sexual intercourse. It's also essential to have regular check-ups and screenings if you are sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners or new partners.

As of now, there is no vaccine available to protect against gonorrhea. The best prevention methods are practicing safe sex and getting regular screenings.