Synonyms: Urethral swab
Related tests: antibiogram
Clinical significanceSample typePreparation
Clinical significance
Microscopic examination of the smear can show the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The urethral discharge is also tested for Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and urogenital mycoplasmas.
Sample type
Urethral discharge.
Preparation
Unless your doctor specifically requests otherwise, the test should not be carried out during antibiotic treatment. Allow at least 7 days after the last dose of antibiotics. If requested together with a semen culture, always take the urethral swab first. When the Stamey test is also requested, it is preferable to allow at least 24 hours between the two so as not to clear the urethral canal.
Do not urinate for 3 hours before the test.