LabInformationLab tests, explained

Gonorrhea Urine Test in California

Below is a plain-language overview of the gonorrhea urine test. A gonorrhea urine test checks for the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. It is often ordered when someone has symptoms like burning during urination or discharge, or after possible exposure to an STI. Across California, part of Pacific, the gonorrhea urine test can be ordered directly and collected at a certified site — no referral required.

Sample type
urine
Category
Sexual Health
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$118
Referral
Not required

A gonorrhea urine test checks for the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. It is often ordered when someone has symptoms like burning during urination or discharge, or after possible exposure to an STI.

What it measures

  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA — Genetic material from the gonorrhea bacteria, detected by a lab technique called nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT).
  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae RNA — Another form of genetic material from the bacteria; some tests look for RNA instead of DNA.
  • Chlamydia trachomatis DNA (if included) — Many urine tests also check for chlamydia, another common STI, because symptoms can be similar.

Who it is for

A doctor, nurse, or sexual health clinic typically orders this test for anyone with symptoms of gonorrhea or a known exposure. It may also be part of routine screening for sexually active adults at higher risk.

Preparation

No fasting or special preparation is needed. You may be asked to provide a first-morning urine sample or to avoid urinating for one to two hours before the test.

Results and what they mean

Results are usually reported as positive (bacteria found) or negative (not found), and sometimes as indeterminate if the sample was unclear. A clinician interprets the result along with your symptoms and history. This information is not medical advice; only a healthcare professional can diagnose or treat an infection.

Requesting the Gonorrhea Urine Test in California

Order online, choose a certified collection site in California, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. Because the region is uneven, coastal metros, inland towns, and rural counties with very different access to testing — worth planning around when you book.

Frequently asked questions

How accurate is a urine gonorrhea test?

Urine NAAT tests are highly accurate for detecting gonorrhea, but no test is perfect. A negative result does not always rule out infection if you were exposed very recently.

Can I get tested if I have no symptoms?

Yes. Many people with gonorrhea have no symptoms, so testing is recommended after possible exposure or as part of routine screening.

Does a urine test check for other STIs?

It can if the lab includes chlamydia or other targets. Ask your provider what is included in your test.

How long after exposure should I test?

Most tests can detect gonorrhea about one to two weeks after exposure. Testing too soon may give a false negative.

Gonorrhea Urine Test by city in California

All testing in California →   Full Gonorrhea Urine Test guide →