When to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases - Parkview Health

Recently, we've seen an increase in the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. Chlamydia is one of the most widespread STDs in the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimating 3 million cases occur annually. Over the past five years, rates of gonorrhea have increased sharply, with certain strains becoming antibiotic-resistant. Testing for STDs is an important way to keep yourself and your partners healthy. In this post, we'll learn more about these two common STDs, how to prevent them, and how and when to get tested.
 

How do you get chlamydia and gonorrhea?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It is the most common bacterial STD infection in the U.S. It can occur in both men and women of all ages but is most common in people 25 years old and younger.

Gonorrhea is also caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. You might have also heard gonorrhea called "the clap" or "drip," colloquially.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. A pregnant woman can also pass these STDs to her baby during birth. They are transmitted via direct contact or fluids during anal, oral, or vaginal sex or sharing sex toys with an infected person.
 

What are the symptoms of a chlamydia or gonorrhea infection?

Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are commonly asymptomatic (meaning they don't display any symptoms).  Because symptoms often do not occur, many patients are not aware that there is anything wrong. It's very important to be tested regularly and to be aware of your partner's status.

If symptoms are recognized, they more than likely will appear several weeks after having sex with an infected individual. It can sometimes take months for symptoms to develop.

Many gonorrhea symptoms and chlamydia symptoms overlap. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are also recognized as co-existing infections, which means that the occurrence of one infection may put you at risk of having the other. Because these two infections often occur at the same time, we suggest that you be tested (and potentially treated) for both.

Possible symptoms of chlamydia in men

• Unusual discharge from the penis
• Pain/burning sensation when urinating
• Pain and/or swelling of the testicles
• Pain, discharge, or bleeding in the anus

Possible symptoms of chlamydia in women

• Unusual discharge from the vagina
• Pain/burning sensation when urinating
• Pain and/or bleeding during or after sex
• Bleeding between periods and/or heavier periods
• Pain, discharge, or bleeding in the anus

Possible symptoms of gonorrhea in men

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Pain/burning in the throat
• Swollen glands in the throat
• Pain/burning sensation when urinating
• Painful bowel movements
• White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
• Painful or swollen testicles

Possible symptoms of gonorrhea in women

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Pain/burning in the throat
• Swollen glands in the throat
• Pain/burning sensation when urinating
• Painful bowel movements
• Vaginal discharge colored green, yellow, or white
• Swelling of the vulva
• Spotting between periods or after intercourse
• Pain in the pelvic area or lower abdomen
   

Possible complications from chlamydia and/or gonorrhea

Leaving an infection untreated can lead to potential complications such as:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – PID is caused if the infection spreads to other reproductive organs, including the uterus and fallopian tubes. PID can cause infertility and ectopic pregnancies.
• Epididymitis – This is inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled tube at the back of the testicles that is responsible for storing and carrying sperm.
• Ectopic pregnancies
• Infertility
• Scars in the urethra
• Inflammation of the testicles
• Prostate pain and inflammation
• Other problems if it spreads through the body
  • Joint swelling and pain
  • Liver inflammation
  • Heart valve and brain damage
  • Reactive arthritis
     

How can I reduce my risk of being infected by an STD?

• Always use a condom or dental dam during sex.
• Don't have sex with someone who has an active infection.
• Don't have sex with someone who has symptoms of an STD.
• Limit sexual partners.
• Communicate openly with your partner about sexual activities.
• Get tested and have your partners get tested, too.
   

When should I get tested?

The incubation period for chlamydia is 1 - 5 days from exposure, and the incubation period for gonorrhea is 2 - 6 days. We recommend waiting until after the incubation period is over to receive the most accurate results and avoid false negatives. 

Screening is important, because if you don't have symptoms, you may not know that you're infected.  National guidelines recommend yearly screening for the following groups:

• Sexually active women under age 25
• Women older than 25 and at increased risk of STIs — such as having sex with a new partner or multiple partners
• Men who have sex with men
• People with HIV
• Transgender women who have sex with men
• People who have been forced to have intercourse or engage in sexual activity against their will

Both chlamydia and gonorrhea can be cured using antibiotics. Common antibiotics used are ceftriaxone, azithromycin, or doxycycline.

Testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea is available through Parkview's direct access testing (DAT) program using a urine sample.  DAT allows you to self-order your laboratory tests and get your results.  This program does not require a physician visit or order and provides an out-of-pocket option for those without health insurance or who prefer not to file a claim through their insurance.  To learn more, visit Parkview.com/dat.

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