Chlamydia Screening Test – Why You Should Get It Done

Chlamydia Screening Test – Why You Should Get It Done

A chlamydia screening test is recommended for identifying the bacteria responsible for this sexually transmitted infection (STI). The primary method employed is the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). It detects the DNA of the chlamydia-causing bacteria. The test involves providing a urine sample or having a swab taken from the vagina, anus, throat, or eye, depending on the potential infection site. You can get the results on the same day, in most cases, at the best Virginia chlamydia screening test centers.

Chlamydia is often asymptomatic, and that’s why it can be spread unknowingly. One aspect of significant concern is the risk of transmission from an infected pregnant person to their baby during childbirth.

Fortunately, there are antibiotics available that can effectively treat the infection. However, if left untreated, chlamydia may lead to severe complications. In females, it can spread within the reproductive system, potentially causing infertility. There is also the occasional possibility of developing reactive arthritis.

The Testing Process

At the Virginia chlamydia screening test clinics, the samples of body fluids or urine are used to detect the presence of chlamydia bacteria and diagnose an infection.

NAAT plays a crucial role in identifying chlamydia infections. These tests analyze body fluid samples from areas like the cervix, vagina, eyes, rectum, or throat to detect the genetic material (DNA) of chlamydia bacteria.

They are highly effective in pinpointing chlamydia, with a positive result indicating the presence of the infection and rarely producing false positives.

An example of a NAAT is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which can also be conducted using a urine sample.

In the event of a positive chlamydia diagnosis, all sexual partners from the past 60 days must undergo testing and receive treatment. Affected individuals may need tests for other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of potential infection are addressed, promoting individual and public health.

Who Must Get Tested

Chlamydia testing is often done in asymptomatic individuals, particularly in settings with high infection rates. This includes correctional facilities, adolescent health clinics, the military, and sexual health clinics.

However, diagnostic testing for chlamydia is strongly recommended for anyone displaying signs or symptoms of the infection. It’s important to note that symptoms may not manifest until several weeks after exposure. The indications of chlamydia can vary depending on the site of infection and may encompass:

• Burning sensation during urination
• Abnormal discharge from the vagina, penis, or rectum
• Vaginal bleeding after sex or pain during intercourse
• Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the testicles or scrotum
• Rectal pain

Awareness of these symptoms is crucial for seeking timely testing and treatment, contributing to both individual well-being and the prevention of further transmission of the infection.

How To Prepare For Chlamydia Test

To prepare for a chlamydia test, you must provide a urine sample or have fluid collected directly from the potentially infected area. If using a urine sample, it is recommended that you refrain from urinating for two hours before collection.

Procedure

For a urine sample, avoid wiping the genital area before urinating and collect the initial part of your urine stream. In a direct sample, fluid is taken from areas like the cervix, vagina, rectum, throat, or eyes, using a swab or self-collected as per instructions from your doctor.

The test typically takes only a few minutes at the leading Arlington chlamydia screening facilities.

Providing a urine sample is discomfort-free. However, collecting fluid from the vagina, rectum, throat, or eyes may cause mild discomfort. Cervical sample collection might feel similar to a Pap test or pelvic examination.

Risks

There are no risks associated with providing a urine sample. Collecting fluid from the cervix, vagina, rectum, eyes, or throat carries minimal risk of problems.

To combat the spread of chlamydia, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends screening for anyone displaying symptoms. Sexually active women aged 25 or younger, pregnant women, individuals with new or multiple sex partners, and men who have sex with men are advised to consider more frequent chlamydia screening. This proactive approach helps in early detection and timely intervention, preventing potential complications associated with untreated chlamydia infections.