🌿 Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea Test (Urine/Swab)
A common screening test to detect the sexually transmitted infections (STIs) chlamydia and gonorrhoea.

🔍 What is it?

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are bacterial STIs caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae respectively. These infections often have no symptoms but can cause serious reproductive health problems if left untreated.

The test detects the presence of bacteria in urine or swab samples from the genital area.

🧪 What does it measure?

• DNA or RNA of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria
• Uses nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), which are highly sensitive and specific
• Samples can be collected from urine, urethra, cervix, throat, or rectum depending on exposure and symptoms

🔎 Note:

• Avoid urinating for at least 1 hour before urine sample collection for accurate results
• Swabs may be self-collected or taken by a healthcare professional depending on the site tested

❓ Why might I need it?

You may be advised to have this test if you experience:

• 🔥 Unusual genital discharge or pain during urination
• 🤒 Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• 🔄 Abnormal vaginal bleeding or bleeding after sex
• 😷 Sore throat or anal discomfort if exposed through oral or anal sex
• 💑 You have had unprotected sex or a new sexual partner
• 🔎 Routine STI screening for sexually active individuals or during pregnancy

🧬 Conditions it can help detect:

• Chlamydia trachomatis infection
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection
• Prevention of complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased HIV risk

🩺 How is it done?

• Urine test: Provide a first-catch urine sample (first part of urine flow)
• Swab test: Taken from the cervix, urethra, throat, or rectum depending on exposure
• Usually painless and quick
• ⏳ Results typically available within 1–5 working days

💷 Typical Private Cost in the UK:
£40–£90 depending on the provider and number of sites tested

✅ Commonly Combined With:

• Other STI tests (HIV, syphilis, herpes)
• Full sexual health screen including hepatitis B & C
• Pregnancy test (if relevant)

📚 References:

• NHS – Sexual health and STIs
• British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) Guidelines
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – STI Testing