7 Ways to Check if You Have Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease. This infection is known to spread easily as it may not cause any evident symptoms initially. However, there are a few early signs and tests that can help to diagnose Chlamydia. Read on to learn the 7 ways to check if you have Chlamydia.

7. Abnormal vaginal discharge

Abnormal or foul-smelling discharge from the vagina could be a sign of vaginal infections such as Chlamydia. If this symptom is accompanied by abnormal bleeding between periods and painful periods, it should raise the suspicion of having Chlamydia. [1]

6. Painful urination

Men with Chlamydia may experience pain while passing urine along with a small amount of blood or cloudy discharge from the penis. It may also cause burning and itching at the tip of the penis. [2]

5. Urine test

One of the best ways to check if you have Chlamydia is to do a urine test. A sample of urine can be analyzed in a laboratory to detect the presence of this infection. [3]

4. A swab

Women can check if they have Chlamydia by doing a swab test in the laboratory. This test involves taking a swab or small amount of discharge from the cervix. The swab is sent for antigen testing and culture for the diagnosis of chlamydia. [4]

3. Chlamydial conjunctivitis

Checking your eyes for the signs of chlamydial conjunctivitis could help in the early diagnosis of this condition. Chlamydial conjunctivitis can occur in men as well as women due to the contact of the pink part of the eyelid with infected genital secretions. [5]

2. Pain while eating

Oral sex can expose the delicate mucosa of the mouth to chlamydia resulting in the development of ulceration in the oral cavity. Checking your oral cavity for the presence of ulceration would help you know if you have a chlamydial infection. [6]

1. Painful sex

Women who have started experiencing pain during and after sex in the absence of similar symptoms in the past could be suffering from vaginal infections like chlamydia. The other signs of chlamydial infection include bleeding and pain in the lower abdomen after sex. [7]

 Conclusion

Being aware of the symptoms of chlamydia can help you to check if you have this infection. The diagnostic methods like urine tests and the swab can help to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.