Smear for Gonococci Test

Smear for Gonococci is a problem both males and females may suffer with. It is a serious problem as untreated gonorrhea can result in severe problems including permanent health problems, in both women and men. In women, gonorrhea can spread into the uterus or fallopian tubes and result in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). However in men, gonorrhea may become complex by epididymitis. And sometimes it can also lead to infertility. Untreated, gonorrhea can also move in the blood and result in Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which can further cause Arthritis, tenosynovitis, and/or dermatitis. A pregnant woman who suffers from gonorrhea can give the infection to her baby while passing it via the birth canal during delivery. This can lead the baby to develop Blindness, Joint infection or a life-threatening blood infection in the baby

There is no as such preparation for the test as it is done through private organs. The doctors would maintain high hygiene levels whereas for patients it is advisable to clean your private parts when you go for the test. To ensure no time loss, do take an appointment beforehand for the test.

The test procedure is different for men and women and has its own important considerations:
For men:
For performing this test in men, the patient is asked to squeeze the penis to get a good smear or gently put the urogenital swab into the urethra. Move the swab in one direction for at least one revolution for a minimum of 10 seconds. Withdraw the swab and smear it on the slide. This way smear for men can be collected.
For women:
For the women, endocervical specimen is preferred. Collecting of specimen should be done with a sterile swab or culturette. Move swab against the wall of the endocervical canal several times for 20-30 seconds and withdraw it without touching the vaginal surface. If you touch the vaginal surface you won't get the exact smear which won't give exact results for the test. So be careful while taking smear for the women.