Chlamydia

A common STI that can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat, it is caused by the bacteria "Chlamydia trachomatis." Many people with chlamydia have no symptoms. When present, symptoms may include discharge or painful urination. Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics. If not diagnosed and treated, it can cause severe health problems and serious complications like infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

You might consider testing if:
• Have had unprotected sex or do not speak to your partners about their STD status
• Have multiple sex partners or learn your partner has an STD
• Are a woman and have symptoms including pain or burning when urinating, increased/abnormal vaginal discharge, or abdominal pain or bleeding between periods.
• Are a man and have symptoms including burning after urination or ejaculation, itching of the penis, white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis, or swollen testicles.
• Have rectal symptoms including discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements. Symptoms in the mouth can occur if you have engaged in oral sexual activity.
• Previously had a negative test but are still experiencing symptoms. You may want to consider taking the test again since the average period for detecting chlamydia/gonorrhea is 2-6 days, but can be up to 30 days.
• Are sexually active and have tested positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea in the past (up to 25% of women treated for chlamydia get reinfected within three to six months. Gonorrhea can also recur and may require retesting).
• Are a man who has sex with men
• Share or have shared injection drug equipment
• Are pregnant

TEST PREPARATION:

Urine Specimen:

• The patient should not have urinated for at least two hours prior to specimen collection.
• Be prepared to submit at least 60 mL (~2 fl oz) of urine. Excessive hydration may result in specimen dilution that can reduce test sensitivity; lesser volumes may not adequately rinse organisms into the specimen.
• Female patients should not cleanse the labial area prior to providing the specimen.

[LC 188078]