Can a Blood Test Detect Gonorrhea?

The most common way to test for gonorrhea is with a swab sample taken from the urethra or cervix in the case of women. However, recently blood tests have become more prevalent as they provide the patient with the opportunity to avoid the discomfort and embarrassment of having a swab taken. Blood tests for gonorrhea are called NAATs, or Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests, and they work by identifying small bits of bacterial DNA even when the bacterium is not fully present in the sample. These tests are highly accurate and not invasive.

Note: This article is not medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your specific condition.