Up to 80 percent of women and 25 percent of men with uncomplicated chlamydia infection have no symptoms or signs of infection. Early diagnosis and treatment of chlamydia infections are critical. You should also have a screening test for chlamydia at the start of a new relationship or if you are currently sexually active and your partner has been diagnosed and treated for chlamydia. A diagnosis of chlamydia is made with one of several types of laboratory tests. The test at Duke Family Medicine Center is called a DNA probe assay.
Chlamydial infections are one of the most treatable STDs, especially when detected early.
The infection is usually treated with antibiotics. If there is a doubt, treatment with antibiotics may also be suggested even if the test results are negative or if you have not been tested for the disease. It is better to be treated, as untreated chlamydia can have long term negative consequences. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms disappear, and to return for a follow-up examination. All exposed sexual partners should be referred for evaluation and treatment.