How can Chlamydia be diagnosed?

Symptoms of Chlamydia usually occur within a week; some times it may take up to 3 weeks to occur. Diagnosis is done by a doctor after doing certain tests for Chlamydia. A person should go through a test as soon as he or she notices any of the symptoms of Chlamydia. Laboratory tests are performed to diagnose Chlamydia. Some tests are performed on urine while some others involve a specimen collection from an area such as the penis or cervix. You must consult your family doctor, adolescent doctor, or gynecologist if you think you are infected with Chlamydia or if you have had a partner, who might be infected with Chlamydia. Some local health clinics, such as Planned Parenthood, can also test and treat people for Chlamydia. Diagnosis of Chlamydia is done differently for men and women. Diagnosis test varies between man and a woman.

How are women diagnosed?

Diagnosis of women is done by a gynecologist. The gynecologist most likely uses a speculum so that she can see the cervix of the patient. The gynecologist will take a small swab to get a sample from the cervix that she can send to the laboratory for the test. It is important to be noted that this is not similar to a Pap smear test. Even though both of them use swabs to examine your cervix, they both are looking for different things and are tested in a different way.

Urine sample is also taken for Chlamydia test, but this is rarely done. Most of the doctors prefer cervical samples for diagnosis, as they give more precise results.

How are men diagnosed?

Men are diagnosed differently than women by a doctor. The doctor takes a urine sample or sometimes sample inside the head of the penis with a small swab. The doctor sends this sample to the lab for tests. It is important to note that all doctors don’t do urine test for Chlamydia. But even then it’s OK. You should be relaxed asking whether or not getting one is an alternative.

How to diagnose both men and women?

If you are active in anal intercourse then you should inform your doctor. Then your doctor can take a swab sample from your rectum for test.

How often should you get tested?

It is necessary to undergo a test on a regular basis if you are exposed to the risk of the disease, since Chlamydia is asymptomatic. Depending upon your risk factors you should consult your doctor regarding how often you should be tested. You should also discuss with the doctor about how he or she thinks you needed to be screened for Chlamydia.