Chlamydia Tests

• If a chlamydia infection is suspected, do not have sexual intercourse until the test results have come back. If you have a chlamydia infection, do not have sexual intercourse for 7 days after the start of treatment. Your sex partner(s) should also be treated for a chlamydia infection so that you don't get reinfected and so that others don't get infected.
• Only one laboratory test (NAAT, ELISA, DFA, DNA probe testing, or chlamydia culture) is needed to diagnose chlamydia. Your doctor can choose which test to use.
• Your doctor is required to report your chlamydia infection to the state health department. The department may contact your sex partners to inform them that they also need treatment.
• Screening for and treating chlamydia can help prevent Reference pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) Opens New Window. For more information on the treatment of a chlamydia infection, see the topic Reference Chlamydia.
• Other sexually transmitted infections may be present at the same time as chlamydia, so it is important to be tested and treated for all STIs. Chlamydia as well as other STIs can also increase the chance of getting Reference human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Opens New Window. An HIV test may be offered at the same time as a test for chlamydia or other STIs.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.