Chlamydia Test

How it Works

Chlamydia Test

Chlamydia is one of the most frequently reported bacterial sexually transmitted diseases in the United States.  It is typically passed through sexual contact from one infected party to another.  An infected mother can also pass the infection to her baby during childbirth.  Chlamydia is often called a “silent disease” because those infected frequently show no symptoms.  For this reason, it is important to get a chlamydia test if you engage in behaviors that put you at risk for infection.   

An easy, confidential Chlamydia test

At Request a Test, we have access to labs all over the country.  We use the same testing facilities that are employed by many hospitals and physicians for their testing needs.  All of our labs operate on a walk-in basis so there is no need to schedule appointments.  Ordering your chlamydia test with us eliminates the need to go through your doctor or insurance.  No one needs to know about your testing needs but you.

Types of Chlamydia tests

Our standard genital chlamydia test is conducted with a urine sample.  This test typically sees results in 1-3 business days.  This test is also available in a package with our genital gonorrhea test or our Recent Exposure Fundamental package which includes tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.  For pricing and more information about these and other available tests in our STD category, please go to https://requestatest.com/std-testing.

Symptoms of Chlamydia

In women symptoms of chlamydia can include vaginal discharge, lower back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, and bleeding between menstrual cycles. Symptoms in men can include penile discharge, burning sensation during urination, burning and itching around the opening of the penis, and pain or swelling in the testicles.  It is important to note that not all of those infected will display the same or any symptoms.  The absence of symptoms is not a reason to avoid getting a chlamydia test.

Who should get a Chlamydia test?

Chlamydia is highly contagious and easily spread through sexual contact of the genital area, anus, or throat.  Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for chlamydia infection.  The risk is higher for those who engage in unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners.  The use of condoms or other protective devices lessens but does not eliminate the risk of chlamydia infections. 

Why get a Chlamydia test?

Chlamydia often causes no obvious symptoms.  If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious long-term health and reproductive problems.  In women, chlamydia can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.  It can also result in permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues.  A long-term chlamydia infection can also cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and fatal ectopic pregnancy.  In men, chlamydia can result in chronic pain or sterility.  Those infected with chlamydia are at increased risk of contracting HIV.

When to get a Chlamydia test

A genital chlamydia test is typically most effective at three weeks or more after initial contact.  It is advisable for women age 25 or younger who are sexually active to receive annual chlamydia tests.  Women over age 25 with risk factors such as new or multiple partners should also seek annual testing.  All pregnant women should receive a chlamydia test as the infection can be spread during birth leading to serious and sometimes fatal complications for the infant.  Chlamydia can cause damage to the reproductive systems in both men and women.  Anyone experiencing fertility issues is advised to seek chlamydia testing.  

Where can I get a Chlamydia test?

Request A Test contracts with 2 of the largest labs in the United States to provide you with 1000s of lab collection centers nationwide.  When you order your chlamydia test with us, we will find the lab location that is most convenient for you.  Once your order is complete, you can go to the lab anytime during their business hours.  To find the lab location nearest to you or to view a complete list of available lab locations, please go to our Location Finder.   

Chlamydia test preparation

Refrain from urinating 1-2 hours before collection.  Refrain from cleaning the genital area 1-2 hours before collection.  For women, it is preferable that the collection not be taken during menstruation. 

Chlamydia test procedure

The genital chlamydia test requires a urine specimen.  The lab attendant will give you a collection cup and direct you to a room with a toilet.  Begin urinating directly into the collection cup.  Collect 20-30 milliliters in the cup and allow the rest of the urine to go into the toilet.  It is important not to fill the cup more than 20-30 milliliters as this may dilute the specimen and reduce the accuracy of the test. 

Chlamydia test accuracy

At Request a Test we use only nationally accredited labs with highly trained personnel and state of the art equipment to ensure the highest possible accuracy in your chlamydia test results.

Chlamydia test results

The chlamydia test typically sees results in 1-3 business days.  You will be notified by e-mail as soon as your results are available.  You can access your results online or call to speak to a representative.  Results can also be sent by fax or mail by special request. 

Chlamydia treatment

Chlamydia is typically treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin and doxycycline.  These treatments usually eliminate the chlamydia infection but will not undo any permanent damage already done to the body.  A chlamydia test can help ensure early detection and diagnosis.  It is always advisable to retest in order to insure that treatment was successful.   

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