How Is Chlamydia Diagnosis Made?
As chlamydia is typically asymptomatic and silent, testing is the only method to determine if you have the infection. It makes no difference whether you exhibit symptoms or not. The recommended chlamydia tests are typically benign and simple to administer. A sample of cells is sent for analysis to a laboratory. Generally, a doctor or nurse is not required to examine you first, and you can obtain the sample on your own. (9)
The sample can be gathered in two different ways:
Using a cotton swab – The area that may be infected, such as the vagina or the anus, is wiped delicately with a small cotton swab. Later, the blossom will be sent to a laboratory for chlamydia testing.
Ideally, you should urinate into a container at least one hour after your last urination. Most laboratories recommend mid-stream urine to prevent sample contamination.
A urine sample is typically required from men, whereas a urine sample is typically required from women. The results are typically available within seven to ten days. If you have a high likelihood of having chlamydia — for instance, if your partner has been diagnosed with it or if you have symptoms of the infection — you may begin treatment (broad-spectrum antibiotics) before you receive your test results.
When should I undergo a test?
Get tested immediately if you believe you have had sexual contact with a person infected with chlamydia or if you are experiencing symptoms of chlamydia. Chlamydia can cause severe complications if it is not promptly diagnosed and treated. Chlamydia tests are available at all times. However, if it has been less than two weeks since your last sexual encounter, you may be advised to repeat the test, as the infection’s early stages are not always detected.
Chlamydia testing should be considered if:
Symptoms of chlamydia are present in either you or your partner.
You have had unprotected intercourse with a new partner.
The contraceptive breaks apart during sexual activity.
Your partner or you have had unprotected sexual contact with a third party.
You suspect you may be suffering from a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
When your companion informs you that they have a STI
You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
As part of the NCSP, chlamydia testing will be provided.
If you are under 25 and sexually active, you should take a chlamydia test once a year and whenever you have intercourse with new or casual partners. An annual chlamydia test is recommended for sexually active men under 25 who do not use condoms with new or casual partners.
Three to six months after treatment for chlamydia, you may be offered another test. Young adults who are positive for Chlamydia are at a greater risk of contracting it again.