Find A Professional
This page is part of the following topics:
Rectal Swab Test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
Rectal Swab Test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
What is a Rectal Swab Test?
A rectal swab test is a diagnostic procedure used to detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia in the rectum. This test involves using a small, sterile swab to collect a mucus sample from the lining of the rectum. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. This type of test is essential for individuals who engage in receptive anal sex, as infections in the rectum can often be asymptomatic, meaning there may be no noticeable symptoms.Why is it Important?
Gonorrhoea and chlamydia are common STIs that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. These include long-term pain, infertility, and a higher risk of contracting other STIs, including HIV. Early detection through a rectal swab test allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent these complications. It also helps in stopping the spread of the infection to partners. In the UK, Sexual Health Clinics (GUM clinics) provide this test, and it can also be conducted by your GP or other healthcare providers.How is the Test Performed?
The rectal swab test is a quick and simple procedure. You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest. A healthcare professional will gently insert the swab into your rectum to collect the sample. The process typically takes only a few minutes and may cause slight discomfort but is usually not painful. After the swab is collected, it is placed in a sterile container and sent for laboratory testing.Receiving Your Results
Results from a rectal swab test are usually available within a few days to a week. If the test is positive for gonorrhoea or chlamydia, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with you. Both infections are treatable with antibiotics. Follow-up testing may be recommended to ensure the infection has been completely cleared.Where to Get Tested
In the UK, rectal swab tests for gonorrhoea and chlamydia can be accessed through NHS Sexual Health Clinics, GPs, and various private healthcare providers. Many services offer confidential and free testing. You can find the nearest clinic by using online resources, such as the NHS website.Frequently Asked Questions
What is a rectal swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia?
A rectal swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia involves collecting a sample of cells and mucus from the rectum using a swab. The sample is then tested in a laboratory to detect the presence of Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia bacteria.
Why would I need a rectal swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia?
You may need a rectal swab test if you've had unprotected anal sex or have symptoms such as rectal pain, bleeding, or discharge, indicating a possible infection.
How is the rectal swab test performed?
A healthcare professional will insert a sterile swab into your rectum to collect a sample. The procedure is quick and may cause slight discomfort but is generally not painful.
Is the rectal swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia accurate?
Yes, the rectal swab test is highly accurate when performed correctly. It is a reliable method for detecting infections in the rectal area.
Do I need to prepare for a rectal swab test?
Generally, no special preparation is needed. However, you should follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.
Can I test myself at home with a rectal swab kit?
Yes, home testing kits for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia are available. These kits usually come with instructions on how to collect the sample and mail it to a laboratory for analysis.
How long does it take to get results from a rectal swab test?
Results typically take a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory processing the sample.
What if my rectal swab test is positive for Gonorrhoea or Chlamydia?
If your test is positive, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with you. Both infections are treatable with antibiotics.
Is it possible to have Gonorrhoea or Chlamydia without symptoms?
Yes, many people with Gonorrhoea or Chlamydia do not exhibit symptoms, which is why testing is important if you've had unprotected sex.
Is it confidential to get a rectal swab test for STIs?
Yes, STI testing, including rectal swab tests, is confidential. Your results and any related discussions with your healthcare provider are private.
Can I still get tested if I am on my period?
Yes, you can still have a rectal swab test if you are on your period. It should not affect the test results.
Where can I get a rectal swab test in the UK?
You can get a rectal swab test at sexual health clinics, some GP surgeries, and through certain online health services.
Are there any risks associated with a rectal swab test?
The risks are very minimal. You may experience slight discomfort or minor bleeding from the swab, but serious complications are extremely rare.
How much does a rectal swab test cost?
STI testing is free at NHS sexual health clinics in the UK. If you choose to have the test privately, costs can vary.
How often should I get tested for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia?
It's recommended to get tested at least once a year if you are sexually active, or more frequently if you have multiple partners or engage in high-risk sexual activities.
Useful Links
Useful Links : Rectal swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
Useful links from: Urine test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Official NHS page providing comprehensive information about gonorrhoea, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
- NHS - Chlamydia NHS guide detailing the key aspects of chlamydia, such as its symptoms, testing, treatment, and prevention methods.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Terrence Higgins Trust page offering detailed insights into gonorrhoea, methods of transmission, testing, and treatment options.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia An informative page by Terrence Higgins Trust focusing on chlamydia, including its symptoms, risk factors, testing, and available treatments.
Useful links from: Vaginal Swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive information on Gonorrhoea, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options provided by NHS.
- NHS - Chlamydia Detailed overview of Chlamydia, including symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures according to NHS guidelines.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Information provided by the Terrence Higgins Trust on testing and screening for Gonorrhoea, including guidance on vaginal swabs.
- National Chlamydia Screening Programme NHS resource dedicated to the National Chlamydia Screening Programme, offering details on where and how to get screened for Chlamydia.
Useful links from: The symptoms of gonorrhoea
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive resource from the UK's National Health Service on the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gonorrhoea.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Information from the UK's leading HIV and sexual health charity about the symptoms, testing, and treatment of gonorrhoea.
- FPA - Gonorrhoea Factsheet from the Family Planning Association detailing symptoms, how gonorrhoea is spread, and available treatments.
- British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) - Gonorrhoea Clinical guidelines for healthcare professionals about the management of gonorrhoea, including symptoms and treatment protocols, from the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV.
Useful links from: Pharyngeal swab for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive information on gonorrhoea, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention from the NHS.
- NHS - Chlamydia Detailed guide on chlamydia provided by the NHS, covering symptoms, risks, testing, and treatment.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Information on gonorrhoea from the UK's leading HIV and sexual health charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia An overview of chlamydia, including testing and treatment, from the Terrence Higgins Trust.
Useful links from: Understanding Your Sexual Health - Gonorrhoea
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive information on gonorrhoea, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention from the National Health Service (NHS).
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Detailed resource on gonorrhoea provided by the Terrence Higgins Trust, which focuses on sexual health and offers support and advice for those affected.
- Brook - Gonorrhoea Information for young people on gonorrhoea, including transmission, symptoms, and treatment, from Brook, a UK-based charity promoting sexual health education.
- FPA - Gonorrhoea Resource on gonorrhoea from the Family Planning Association (FPA), offering insights into symptoms, testing, and treatment options.
Useful links from: Chlamydia: The Silent Threat
- NHS - Chlamydia The official NHS page provides comprehensive information on chlamydia, including symptoms, causes, testing, treatment, and prevention.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia The Terrence Higgins Trust's page on chlamydia offers detailed guidance on the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and how to prevent the spread of the infection.
- Brook - Chlamydia Brook provides information tailored for young people on chlamydia, its symptoms, how to get tested, and available treatments.
- FPA - Chlamydia The Family Planning Association's (FPA) page offers easy-to-understand information on chlamydia, its symptoms, testing, and treatment options.
Useful links from: NHS - Chlamydia
- NHS - Chlamydia The official NHS page providing comprehensive information on Chlamydia, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
- NHS - Sexual Health and Chlamydia Testing This NHS resource explains the importance of sexual health screenings and provides details on testing for sexually transmitted infections, including Chlamydia.
- Brook - Chlamydia Brook is a UK-based charity that offers information and advice on sexual health. This page focuses on Chlamydia, detailing symptoms, prevention, and treatment options.
- FPA - Chlamydia FPA UK's Sexwise site provides detailed information on Chlamydia, including how it spreads, health risks, and where to get tested.
Useful links from: Urine test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea This page provides comprehensive information on gonorrhoea including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, as well as links to further resources and support.
- NHS - Chlamydia This page offers detailed information about chlamydia, covering symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and preventative measures, along with associated health advice.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Terrence Higgins Trust provides essential information regarding gonorrhoea, including its symptoms, testing options, treatment methods, and ways to prevent infection.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia This page by Terrence Higgins Trust addresses key facts about chlamydia, including risk factors, testing procedures, treatment options, and steps for prevention.
We would love to hear from you!
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
Important Information On Using This Service
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.