Chlamydia infection, the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI), is effectively detected by the NYD chlamydia test. The test looks for the bacterium causing the infection (Chlamydia trachomatis) and alerts you to it with high accuracy.
Chlamydia testing is essential to limit the spread of this sexually transmitted infection. It is especially important to get regular screening for chlamydia if you are at higher risk of this STD. If left untreated, the infection can cause health problems – and you can pass it on to your partner.
The test requires a urine sample, or a swab of fluid from the vagina, anus, throat or eye (depending on where the infection is suspected). This test can most often be done in a private clinic or by your GP. However, many people nowadays prefer to take the test at home, as it offers greater anonymity. However, if the rapid (home) test detects an infection, you are advised to get tested again with a more accurate, laboratory test at your chosen health clinic. We also offer both types of tests for NYD diagnosis – you can read more here.
When is the Chlamydia Test done?
Chlamydia infection usually causes no symptoms, so many people don’t even know they have it. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious health problems and infertility. This is why regular chlamydia testing is important, especially if there is a higher risk of infection. Regular chlamydia screening is recommended if:
- You are sexually active, especially if you are under 25
- You are pregnant and under 25 – pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases can be dangerous for you and your baby
- You have HIV
- Does your partner have a sexually transmitted disease or sexually transmitted infection
- Having sex with a new partner or having more than one sexual partner
If you have previously tested positive for chlamydia and have been treated for it, you should have further tests. You usually need to have a test about one month after treatment and two months after that to make sure the treatment has been effective.
Symptoms of chlamydia include:
- Burning during urination
- Discharge (fluid or mucus) from the vagina, penis or anus
- Painful intercourse or bleeding after intercourse
How does the Chlamydia test work?
The most commonly used type of test for chlamydia is called the nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT). NAAT detects the DNA of the bacteria that cause chlamydia infection. A sample of vaginal or urethral secretions (the tube that carries urine out of your body) is needed – i.e. a urine sample. The laboratory then tests this sample for any signs of bacteria.
Less commonly, providers use cell culture for chlamydia testing. Your doctor will take a swab of your vagina, urethra or anus (take a sample of fluid and cells). The sample is then sent to a laboratory for in-depth testing. If bacteria are present, they will grow, indicating an infection. Due to the greater complexity of the test and its comparable accuracy, operators mostly do not perform this test.
What to Do Before Testing
It is always advisable to ask your provider how to prepare for a chlamydia test. Before the test, you will most likely need to avoid:
- Urinating a few hours before you get the test
- Showering or using creams in the vaginal area
- Taking certain medicines, for example antibiotics
What to do if the Chlamydia Test is Positive?
It usually takes about 24 hours to get your NAAT results. The home test is the fastest, showing a result within 15 minutes. minutes. If you use a cell culture test, it can take about a week to get results.
If the test is positive, the bacteria that causes chlamydia has been detected. This means you have a chlamydia infection and will need treatment (antibiotic medication). You will also need to inform your sexual partners so that they are also tested on time.
You will need further chlamydia control tests after treatment. You will probably need another test three weeks after treatment and maybe another test three months later. Discuss this with your personal doctor.
Read more articles:
- Gonorrhoea, what it is and how it is treated.
The bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes gonorrhoea, which is a sexually transmitted disease. An appropriate antibiotic is used to treat it.
- Self-Pay SPB Testing – Why Should I Get Tested for Chlamydia?
Regular testing for chlamydia and other STDs is necessary if you change sexual partners regularly – as the consequences can be long-lasting.
- What is Intravenous Vitamin Therapy or Mayer’s Cocktail?
Intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy is a sophisticated way of adding high concentrations of vitamins and […]
- What is Lyme disease or Tick Borreliosis?
Lyme borreliosis (LB), or tick-borne borreliosis, is by far the most common of all tick-borne […]