To test for chlamydia, your doctor may ask for a urine sample or take samples of any discharge from your genital area.
Although you can treat chlamydia easily with a course of antibiotics, if left untreated, it can have long-term health effects. A diagnosis of chlamydia does not mean anyone cheated during your relationship. Most people with chlamydia do not experience any symptoms, and therefore could have been carrying it for a long time.
If you feel like you’re panicking after a chlamydia diagnosis, try deep breathing, doing a progressive muscle relaxation exercise, or just having a conversation with a trusted friend.
“I have something I need to talk to you about—I don’t want you to worry about it too much, but I’d like to have a conversation with you in person. Could I see you tonight?” “I care about you a lot, and there’s something I need to discuss with you. Could we meet tomorrow?” “I have some news I need to share with you, but I’d rather do it in person. Can we get coffee sometime tomorrow afternoon?”
“I tested positive for chlamydia the other day. I’m not sure when I became infected, but I’m telling you because I care about you and your health. ” “Yesterday, I went to the clinic for a check-up and found out I have chlamydia. I’m telling you this because I’d really like you to get tested as well. ” “I found out I have chlamydia over the weekend. I know this might be a stressful thing for you to hear, but I know we can work through these emotions as a couple. ”
If he says, “Did you cheat on me?” say something like, “Having chlamydia doesn’t mean either of us cheated. One of us could have had chlamydia for years and not known. ” If he says, “What do I do now?” say something like, “It’s really important that you get tested yourself—I can help you set up an appointment if you want. Also, make sure you tell any partners you had in the past 6 months. ” If he says, “That’s so gross,” say something like, “No it isn’t. It’s just part of being sexually active. ”
If he asks, “Is it treatable?” say, “Yes—chlamydia is relatively easy to treat, and if you do have it, you’ll need to take a short course of antibiotics. ” If he asks, “Would you be mad at me if I gave it to you?” say, “I don’t know if we’ll be able to ever know who gave it to who. Let’s try not to blame each other. ” If he asks, “How can I get help?” say, “I really liked my experience at this clinic last week. I can call to make an appointment for you, and can came with you if you’re nervous. ” If he asks you a question that you don’t know the answer to, say something like, “I’m not sure, but I can get in touch with my doctor and ask. ”
You can also offer your boyfriend space by saying something like, “I’d be really excited to spend more time with you, but I’d also understand if you want some space to think through this by yourself. ” Needing some space is not a sign that your relationship is over. Don’t panic if your boyfriend wants to be left alone for a little bit.
Decompressing includes taking care of your own health. Aside from caring for your mental health, be sure to take all of the medication that your doctor prescribed you. [8] X Research source
You might tell your doctor something like, “I know that you’re really busy, but I was hoping you might be able to do me a favor. Could you talk to my boyfriend about my chlamydia diagnosis? I don’t want him to hear misinformation. ”
These services can be a good way of reaching out to ex-partners and hookups as well. With chlamydia, it’s important to notify everyone you’ve had sex with in the past 6 months. [10] X Research source
