How long does STI screening take to work for chlamydia?

Chlamydia can be present without obvious symptoms. A urine sample or swab checks for the organism at the body site sampled. Testing very soon after sex may miss an infection that has not reached a detectable level, so the clinician may recommend a repeat test based on the exposure date. A sample from the throat or rectum may be needed when those sites were exposed; a urine test alone may not check them.

A negative result means no infection was detected in that sample at that time. It does not remove the need for advice after a recent exposure, symptoms or a partner's positive result. The service can tell you how results are delivered and whether treatment is needed.

Tell the clinician when the exposure happened, which body sites were involved and whether you have taken antibiotics. Avoid sex or use condoms until you know the result and have followed treatment advice. If chlamydia is found, partners may need testing and treatment, and you may be advised to avoid sex until treatment instructions are complete. Do not share antibiotics or delay care while waiting for symptoms.

Arrange prompt assessment for pelvic or testicular pain, fever, unusual discharge, pain when passing urine, bleeding after sex or pain during sex. Severe lower abdominal pain, fainting, vomiting or feeling very unwell needs urgent care. Seek advice promptly after a partner tells you they have chlamydia, even without symptoms.

Ask whether the sample should be urine or a swab, when testing is appropriate after the exposure, which sites need sampling, and how you will receive the result.