Chlamydia testing is one of the most important STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) testing since testing is, in most cases, the only way of knowing whether or not a person is infected. Although one of the most easily treatable STDs, Chlamydia is one of the most deadly STDs since it rarely exhibits symptoms, and people do not know about it until it has done much damage in their bodies. This STD is caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis, a tiny bacterium, that is transmitted through sexual acts (oral, vaginal or anal) or from mother to child during birth.
Chlamydia Testing
Testing for Chlamydia is a simple process for both men and women. Unlike other STDs that require hard-to-get samples and extremely complicated technology to test, Chlamydia testing requires only a swab or urine sample. People can get tested for Chlamydia in health clinics or in the comfort of their homes where they can buy the STD home test kits. The test kits for Chlamydia display the results within a few minutes of placing the sample in the required sample equipment.
Why Test for Chlamydia
As aforementioned, Chlamydia rarely exhibits symptoms in both men and women. As such, the Chlamydia infection can spread from the sexual organs to the cervix in women and the testes in men, thereby causing pelvic and epididymis inflammation if it is not treated. Chlamydia is one of the leading causes of infertility in both men and women. Children may contract Chlamydia from their mothers during birth and the infection may damage their eyesight. To prevent the damage that Chlamydia causes, early Chlamydia testing is important. The best news about this STD is the fact that it can be treated with antibiotics.
Chlamydia Symptoms
Chlamydia exhibits mild or no symptoms. The mild symptoms are usually dismissed by most people as they resemble most normal body issues that are triggered by a myriad of mild factors. Lower abdominal pain, slight backache, spotting in between period, slight burning sensation when urinating or vaginal/ penile discharge comprise some of the symptoms of Chlamydia. A person who engages in unprotected sex and suspects the exposure to this STD should take a Chlamydia test to know his/ her status, and seek treatment if s/he needs it. There are STD Tests at home as well.
Testing for Chlamydia should be a priority for sexually active people who engage in unprotected sex since the Chlamydia bacterium is easily transmitted and the STD does not always exhibit symptoms. The good news is that Chlamydia is treatable. If left untreated, Chlamydia can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women and epididymitis in men, which can both lead to infertility. Chlamydia testing can be done at home or at any health facility.
