Chlamydia Test

A chlamydia test checks for a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that often has no symptoms, making early detection crucial to prevent serious, lasting health problems.

Overview

Chlamydia is a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI), particularly among sexually active people younger than age 25. Infection occurs through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex without a condom with a partner who has chlamydia.

A chlamydia test analyzes a sample of body fluid to detect the bacteria that causes the infection. The type of sample required depends on the potentially infected area:

• Urine (pee)
• Swabbed fluid from the:
  • Urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body)
  • Rectum (the last part of the intestine that connects to the anus)
  • Vagina

Because chlamydia often presents without symptoms, individuals may spread the disease unknowingly. In pregnant individuals, chlamydia can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth, potentially causing pneumonia and eye problems. While chlamydia is curable with antibiotics, untreated infections can lead to severe, permanent health issues:

• In women: Untreated chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may permanently damage the female reproductive system and lead to infertility.
• In men: Untreated chlamydia can cause swelling and pain in the tubes that carry sperm out of the testicles (testes). While it can cause infertility, this outcome is rare.

Other names for this test include: Chlamydia NAAT or NAT, Chlamydia/GC STD Panel, and Chlamydia Culture.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Chlamydia tests are used to check for infection in sexually active individuals, whether or not they are experiencing symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Unusual fluid discharge from the genitals (penis or vagina) or rectum
• Irritation or itching around the genitals
• Pain or burning during urination
• Pain or bleeding in the rectum
• Pain and swelling in one or both testicles (in men)

Chlamydia tests are frequently performed alongside other STI tests, as co-infections are common; for example, many people with chlamydia also have gonorrhea.

Who Needs a Chlamydia Test?

Testing is required if a sexual partner has been diagnosed with chlamydia or if you have symptoms suggestive of infection. However, because the infection is often asymptomatic, routine screening is recommended for high-risk groups:

• Sexually active women:
  • Test at least annually if younger than age 25.
  • Test at least annually if age 25 or older and at high risk due to:
    • A new sex partner
    • More than one sex partner
    • A sex partner who has sex with other people
    • A sex partner who has an STI
  • If you have HIV, test at your first HIV care visit and at least annually thereafter. More frequent testing may be needed if sexual activity increases risk.
• Pregnant individuals:
  • Ask your provider about testing at the first prenatal visit.
  • Testing is recommended if you are younger than age 25.
  • If you are older than age 25, testing is recommended if you are at high risk.
• Sexually active gay or bisexual men:
  • Test at least annually.
  • Test every 3 to 6 months if you have:
    • More than one sex partner
    • A sex partner who has sex with other people
    • Anonymous sex
    • HIV or take PrEP medicine to prevent HIV
• Heterosexual (straight) men:
  • Routine testing is not suggested if you have no symptoms and a low risk of infection.
  • If you have HIV, test at your first HIV care visit and at least annually thereafter. More frequent testing may be needed if sexual activity increases risk.

Individual testing schedules may vary based on personal sexual activity. Discuss your history with your provider to determine the appropriate frequency for you.

Test Procedure & Preparation

Sample collection involves one of two methods:

• First-catch urine sample: Collect urine from the very first part of the stream in a sterile cup. Avoid urinating for two hours before the test to ensure accuracy.
• Swab sample: A provider uses a special swab or brush to collect cells, usually from the genital area. You may experience brief discomfort. Providers may allow self-swabbing. In certain cases, fluid may be swabbed from the rectum, throat, eyes, or cervix.

Preparation: You may need to avoid antibiotic medicines and vaginal douches or creams for 24 hours before the test. Do not stop taking any prescribed medicines without consulting your provider first.

At-Home Testing: At-home kits are available where you collect a swab or urine sample and send it to a lab. Follow instructions carefully and discuss results with your provider. Do not use at-home tests if you have symptoms or if your partner has chlamydia; seek immediate medical attention to avoid delaying treatment.

Results & Management

Test results are typically ready within a day, though rapid tests can provide results in 90 minutes or less.

• Negative result: No chlamydia infection was detected at the time of sample collection.
• Positive result: You are infected with chlamydia.

If you test positive, you must:

• Take antibiotics: Follow your provider’s instructions carefully and finish the entire course of medication to ensure the infection is cured.
• Notify sexual partners: Inform partners so they can be tested and treated if necessary.
• Get retested: Return for testing three months after finishing treatment, as repeat infections are common. Your provider will advise on future testing frequency.

Prevention

The most reliable way to prevent chlamydia is to abstain from vaginal, oral, or anal sex. If you are sexually active, you can reduce your risk by:

• Practicing mutual monogamy (having sex with only one partner who has sex only with you). Both partners should be tested for chlamydia and other STIs first.
• Using latex condoms correctly every time you have sex. If you or your partner are allergic to latex, use polyurethane condoms.