You’ve heard of gonorrhea — but did you know it can live in your throat?
Throat gonorrhea (also called oropharyngeal gonorrhea) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that spreads through oral sex. Most people don’t know they have it because it usually doesn’t cause symptoms — but it can still be passed on and may lead to serious health problems if left untreated. In South Africa, gonorrhea is very common, with millions of new cases every year. One study found that 11% of women tested had gonorrhea somewhere in their body — but because throat testing isn’t routinely done, many cases might be missed (Peters et al., 2014). We’re going to explain what throat gonorrhea is, who should get tested, how testing works, and how you can get tested easily and privately through Epicentre’s self-test kits.
Throat Gonorrhea vs Genital Gonorrhea: What’s the Difference?
Both throat and genital gonorrhea are caused by the same bacterium — Neisseria gonorrhoeae — but they differ in location, symptoms, and detection:
| Throat Gonorrhea | Genital Gonorrhea |
|---|---|
| Affects the throat and tonsils (oropharynx) | Affects the genitals, cervix, urethra, or rectum |
|
Spread mainly through oral sex |
Spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex |
|
Often asymptomatic, or may feel like a mild sore throat |
Symptoms may include painful urination, discharge, or pelvic pain |
|
Can be mistaken for a cold or strep throat |
More likely to be recognised due to visible symptoms |
|
Diagnosed using a throat swab |
Diagnosed with a urine sample or a genital swab |
|
Still contagious even without symptoms |
Contagious, even if symptoms are mild |
|
Treated with antibiotics |
Treated with the same antibiotics |
Even though throat gonorrhea is less well-known, it can still spread to others and should be taken just as seriously. Testing at all potential sites of exposure is the best way to protect yourself and your partners.
4 Signs Of Throat Gonorrhea Not To Ignore
Throat gonorrhea occurs when Neisseria gonorrhoeae infects the oropharyngeal area—the part of the throat behind the mouth. While many individuals experience no symptoms, some may report:
• Mild sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Redness in the throat
• Discomfort when swallowing (Science direct, n.d)
Because it often mimics a common cold or strep throat, throat gonorrhea can be misdiagnosed or overlooked. This is why testing is so important.
How To Test For Throat Gonorrhea?
Testing for throat gonorrhea is easy. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Throat Swab Collection: A sterile swab is gently rubbed against the back of your throat and tonsils. This only takes a few seconds and is a lot like a COVID-19 or strep test.
2. Swab Sent To Our Lab: The sample is sent to a laboratory where a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) is performed. This test is highly accurate and detects the genetic material of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (WHO, 2013).
Why Testing for Oral Gonorrhea Matters
Even when asymptomatic, throat gonorrhea can still be transmitted to others. If untreated, the infection can persist and contribute to the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains. Testing ensures early detection and allows for timely treatment, usually with a prescribed course of antibiotics (Adamson, 2021)
How to Test for Throat Gonorrhea at Stelkor Pharmacies
Epicentre has partnered with Stelkor Pharmacies to provide discreet self-testing kits for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including throat gonorrhea. Here’s how the process works:
1. Order Online: Visit Epicentre’s website to select and purchase your STI test kit.
2. Choose a Pickup Location: During checkout, select one of the following Stelkor Pharmacy branches in Stellenbosch for kit collection:
• Stelkor Main: 34 Piet Retief Street
• Stelkor Kampus: Neelsie Student Centre, 8 De Beer Road
• Stelkor Simonsrust: Cluver Road
3. Collect Your Kit: Pick up your discreetly packaged test kit from the chosen Stelkor Pharmacy location. No appointment or consultation is necessary.
4. Sample Collection: Follow the provided instructions to collect your throat swab sample. The process is simple and non-invasive.
5. Free Sample Pickup: Epicentre offers complimentary courier services to collect your sample from your home and deliver it to their laboratory for analysis.
6. Receive Results: Your confidential results will be emailed to you, typically within 5 to 7 working days.
7. Follow-Up Support: If your test result is positive, Epicentre can refer you to trusted local healthcare providers, including Stelkor Pharmacies, for appropriate treatment and support.
Meet The Author
Hazel Mantshiu is a health and diagnostic consultant with a robust academic background, including a postgraduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Clinical Research, and Medicines Regulatory Affairs, as well as a BSc in Biomedicine. Her professional experience encompasses roles such as Medical Representative, Clinical Trial Coordinator, Medical Coder, and Site Activation Specialist.
Hazel’s extensive expertise in clinical research and medicines regulation positions her as a knowledgeable contributor to discussions on health diagnostics and patient care
Bibliography
• https://ifbb.com/events/
• https://champagneproductionsafrica.com/npc-african/?
• https://www.ifbbsa.co.za/images/2024/12/2025%20IFBB%20Event%20Calendar.pdf?
• https://epicentre.org.za/packages/
