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Talk to your doctor
Because chlamydia is one of the most common STDs/STIs and it often does not cause any symptoms, you may need to talk to your doctor or health care provider about whether or not you should be tested. If chlamydia is not detected and treated, it can lead to long-term health problems, including infertility (not being able to have a child).
Based on recommendations from the CDC and other medical organizations, sexually active females who are ages 25 and younger should be tested for chlamydia at least once a year, even if there are no symptoms present. Be sure to ask your doctor or health care provider about chlamydia testing if you are female, 25 or younger, and sexually active.
If you are having unprotected sex or discover that your partner is having unprotected sex with another person, you may want to ask about being tested.
Coping with a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STD/STI) can be difficult and sometimes embarrassing; however, you may benefit from discussing your concerns with your doctor and receiving the appropriate tests and treatment. Please know that STDs/STIs are not uncommon.
People sometimes have difficulties talking with their current doctor or health care provider when it comes to sexual health issues. In some cases this may reflect a worry that the provider will be judgmental or hard to talk to. In other cases it might be that you feel your doctor-patient confidentiality may not be respected with your present provider. In either case, we encourage you to find a doctor or health care provider with whom you feel comfortable discussing your concerns.
Where can I find more information about treatment?
For specific questions about treatment, we encourage
you to contact your doctor or health care provider. You can also call or visit
your local health department or STD clinic for more information. To find a clinic
near you, call the CDC Information line. The toll-free line is available 24 hours
a day at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
Share your story
Do you have an experience related to chlamydia that you are willing to share with others? Triumphs? Challenges? Please send your story to mystory@ashastd.org.
ASHA sincerely appreciates all submissions and each is confidential and anonymous. It is ASHA's intent to collect these comments for use in our patient advocacy work, including potential publication. All submissions are property of ASHA and can be edited for length and clarity. Due to the large volume of emails, we regret we cannot provide a response to each submission.
Please note: This email service cannot answer questions about chlamydia. For any questions, please contact your health care provider or call the National STD Hotline at (800) 227-8922.
Thank you.
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