Getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is crucial in controlling diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HIV. However, some people might not be comfortable getting tested at an STD clinic. This is why some people prefer to look for guides on how to test for chlamydia and other STDs at home, so that they can get tested in private.
But how do these tests work, and are they as accurate as the standard forms of testing?
Why is Getting Tested Important?
Before we get to how to test for chlamydia at home, let’s first talk about the usual forms of testing done at STD clinics, hospitals, and other facilities.
The most straightforward – and also recommended – means is through medical consultation. If a person shows any symptoms of chlamydia, such as discharge, pain, or swelling, it is highly advised to seek the professional advice of a doctor.
The doctors will recommend more tests to be done since the symptoms of chlamydia can be similar to other STDs such as gonorrhea.
However, not all people with chlamydia will show signs. This is why getting tested is important, because it helps patients get treatment even before any symptoms appear. This lowers the risk that they might infect other people, and also prevents them from experiencing any complications.
How is Chlamydia Testing Done?
Testing for chlamydia is done two ways; through a swab test, or by taking a urine sample.
Swab test
In a swab test, the person’s mouth, throat, penis, vagina, cervix, or anus will be swabbed to collect tissue samples. Afterward, these samples will be tested for the bacteria that causes chlamydia.
If any trace of the bacteria is found, then the person will be advised to seek treatment for the condition. (However, even with a negative test, do consult a doctor to determine the actual cause of your symptoms. Do not dismiss or self-diagnose based on the results.)
Urine sample
Urine samples, on the other hand, are less invasive compared to swab tests. The patient just needs to provide the clinic with a fresh urine sample, which will then be tested for traces of infection.
These tests are pretty straightforward, and most clinics offer these services with no questions asked. There are also clinics that offer discreet testing, which some people might prefer.
How to Test for Chlamydia at Home
For some people, getting tested for chlamydia in a clinic might sound like a daunting task. Some people are afraid that they might be seen at an STD clinic, while others are embarrassed about their condition.
This is where self-test kits come in. These kits come with instructions and all of the tools that you need.
The only thing you’ll need to do would be to follow the instructions, and wait for the test to show the results. Most self-test kits are accurate and can be a replacement for testing done in clinics.
Though, one problem with these kits is that they depend on the patient to get proper samples. If the patient doesn’t get an adequate swab or urine sample, then the results of the test might not be as accurate compared to those done in clinics.
Another drawback of self-test kits is that patients can’t immediately talk to a doctor if they test positive. Doctors can give guidance and also reassure patients who might have had a positive test result. Doctors still recommend that patients get tested in proper clinics .
