Chlamydia is the most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States, yet many people don’t even realize they have it. At Aslan Health, we’re committed to breaking down barriers to care and making essential testing and treatment accessible for all—because protecting your health shouldn’t be complicated or costly.
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can infect anyone who is sexually active and is most common among young adults and teenagers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 1.6 million reported cases of chlamydia in the U.S. in 2022, but the actual number of infections is likely much higher due to underreporting and undiagnosed cases. [1]
How Does It Spread?
Chlamydia is transmitted through:
- Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection.
- From mother to baby during childbirth (causing serious complications like pneumonia or eye infections in newborns).
Symptoms of Chlamydia
Many people with chlamydia have no symptoms at all. This is why routine screening is so crucial. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
In Women:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Burning sensation during urination
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
In Men:
- Discharge from the penis
- Burning sensation during urination
- Pain or swelling in one or both testicles (less common)
Both men and women can experience rectal infections with symptoms such as rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding.
Why Is Testing So Important?
If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious, long-term health problems:
- In women: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain.
- In men: Epididymitis (inflammation near the testicles) and, rarely, infertility.
- In both: Increased risk of contracting or spreading HIV.
CDC Testing Guidelines:
- All sexually active women under age 25 should be tested yearly.
- Women 25 and older with new or multiple partners, or a partner with an STI, should also be tested annually.
- Men who have sex with men (MSM) should test at least once a year, more often if they have multiple partners.
- Anyone experiencing symptoms or with a known exposure should get tested immediately. [2]
How is Chlamydia Diagnosed?
Testing for chlamydia is quick and simple:
- Urine sample
- Swab of the affected area (cervix, urethra, throat, or rectum)
At Aslan Health, we offer confidential, affordable testing:
- Visit cost: $75 (same-day pay discount)
- Lab fee: $30 for chlamydia testing
- Sliding scale available for qualifying patients.
Treatment and Follow-Up Care
Chlamydia is easily cured with antibiotics, usually a one-time dose of azithromycin or a week-long course of doxycycline.
Important points about treatment:
- Finish the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms go away sooner.
- Avoid sexual activity for 7 days after treatment to prevent spreading it to others.
- All recent sexual partners (within the last 60 days) should be tested and treated.
- Retesting is recommended three months after treatment to ensure the infection is gone.
Preventing Chlamydia
- Use condoms consistently and correctly.
- Get tested regularly, especially if you or your partner has other sexual partners.
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Talk openly with your partner(s) about STIs.
Why Choose Aslan Health for STI Testing?
We understand that sexual health is sensitive, and we’re here to provide care that is:
- Private and Respectful — No judgment, just compassionate care.
- Affordable — Transparent pricing with discounts and sliding scale options.
- Convenient — Walk-in clinic and same-day services available.
- Whole-Person Focused — We care for your body, mind, and spirit.
Don’t Delay Your Health
Chlamydia may be common—but it’s also preventable, treatable, and curable. Early testing protects your health, your future, and those you love.
Walk in or schedule an appointment today at aslanclinic.com
📞 320-297-6800
References:
[1] CDC Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance 2022
https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2022/default.htm
[2] CDC Chlamydia – Fact Sheet
https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia.htm