Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted disease. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the hardest to get tested for. Many people assume that if they have seen symptoms like irritation or discharge in the middle or back of the vaginal region that they have no reason to be concerned. But this is definitely not the case. Untreated gonorrhea and Chlamydia can lead to serious complications such as infertility and cervical cancer. If you think that you may have either of these diseases, it is imperative that you visit a doctor right away.

Newer tests, known as STI test kit are now very accurate and simple to take. Your doctor can show you how to collect your sample, then run a test for either chlamydia or gonorrhea using your samples. If you live in Alaska, Maryland or Washington, D.C. you can get a free long-term test at home. If you don’t have health insurance, there are private providers who offer private, short term Chlamydia testing.

If you go to an STD clinic for a routine exam, the medical staff will give you a general checkup as well as a Chlamydia test and urine exam. You will undergo both of these tests and be asked questions about your sexual health history. You will probably be asked to undergo a pelvic examination, which screens for any infections that may be hidden. Pelvic exams are recommended for all women who are not pregnant and for those who are at high risk for developing Chlamydia.

The next step in Chlamydia testing is collecting a sample of fluid from one of the suspect areas. For this procedure, a nurse or other medical professional will insert a speculum into your urethra to collect a small amount of fluid. The doctor will then compare the sample to samples from the other side of your genitals for confirmation. Once you get tested, you will receive a variety of treatment options. You may be given a prescription for an anti-protozoan antibiotic, a cream to put on your skin, or a shot or pills to take once you start receiving treatment. Some patients prefer to receive a shot or a tablet once they start seeing symptoms so they don’t have to remember to refill their prescription.

Once you’ve had your Chlamydia Test and have received treatment, you’ll need to use protection during intercourse. This is true for partners who are currently being treated with antibiotics. If your partner been tested and has received a prescription for therapy, he or she should wear a condom for the duration of the treatment. It’s also a good idea to use a condom every time you engage in oral sex or anal sex with someone who’s been positively tested.

Although it’s true that not every person who gets a chlamydia test will get infected or know they have it, most health officials do recommend yearly testing for partners who are sexually active or for people whose symptoms are suspected. That way, if someone does get diagnosed, he or she can start treatment immediately and prevent the spread of the disease. If you think you’re currently suffering from any of the symptoms, talk to your doctor about starting an early treatment regimen.

Clare Louise