Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Urine Test (RNA, TMA)

The test looks for ribosomal RNA from Chlamydia trachomatis and from Neisseria gonorrhoeae in a first-catch urine sample, using transcription-mediated amplification (the Aptima Combo 2 assay). Each organism is reported separately as Detected or Not detected. Because it detects the organisms' genetic material rather than an immune response, it shows current infection at the urogenital site that was sampled.

CDC and USPSTF recommend yearly chlamydia and gonorrhea screening for all sexually active women under 25, and for women 25 and older at increased risk (for example a new partner, more than one partner, or a partner with an STI). Sexually active men who have sex with men should screen at least yearly at every site of contact, and every 3 to 6 months if at increased risk; this urine test covers the urethral site. Pregnant people under 25 or at increased risk should also be screened. It is also useful for anyone with a new partner, a partner who has tested positive, symptoms such as burning with urination or unusual discharge, or who simply wants to know.

Once a year for routine screening if you fall into a recommended group, more often if your risk is higher, and whenever you have a new partner or a partner tells you they tested positive. If you have symptoms, see a clinician promptly rather than waiting. After treatment for chlamydia or gonorrhea, CDC recommends retesting about 3 months later because reinfection is common.

Each infection is reported separately. Not detected (negative) means no chlamydia or gonorrhea RNA was found in your urine sample. It does not rule out infection in the throat or rectum, which this test does not sample. Detected (positive) means current urogenital infection with that organism. Both infections are treatable with antibiotics prescribed by a clinician; gonorrhea is treated with an injection given by a clinician. After a positive result, avoid sex for 7 days after treatment and until symptoms resolve, make sure partners from the last 60 days are evaluated and treated, get tested for syphilis and HIV, and retest about 3 months after treatment. JustLabs results are informational; review any positive result with a clinician. This test is not intended for evaluating suspected sexual abuse or other legal purposes.