Chlamydia is among the most widespread sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affecting the fifteen to twenty-four-year-old age set. One in ten sexually active youth is reported to be afflicted with Chlamydia. Compared to other of the STIs it is the most popular in the United Kingdom. The reason behind this is probably because of its ‘silent nature’.
To be able to put a stop to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, particularly on the grounds that a number of infections are symptomless, people must have a sexual health and wellness test whenever they change sexual buddy.
Why Test For Chlamydia
A test for Chlamydia is performed to:
- Check whether signs and symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease (STI) originate from a Chlamydia infection.
- Examine those people who are at high danger getting afflicted with Chlamydia. A Chlamydia infection is not going to constantly trigger symptoms.
Who Needs To Get A Chlamydia Test
- Pretty much all sexually active females aged twenty-four or younger.
- Females older than twenty-four with higher than average risk sexual conducts.
- All expecting mothers in the first trimester and in the third trimester in the event that high-risk sexual conducts are documented. The treatment of a pregnant female who has a Chlamydia infection can avoid an infection in her infant.
- All females with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- All females with signs and symptoms of a cervical infection (cervicitis) found on a pelvic exam.
- Search for infection in a baby whose mommy had a Chlamydia infection during the time of birth.
Types of Chlamydia Test
Different types of tests may be used to determine a Chlamydia infection. The majority of tests utilize a sample of body fluid from the infected area.
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT)
These tests locate the genetic material (DNA) of Chlamydia bacteria. These tests are the most perceptive tests offered. This means that they are extremely precise and that they are not likely to provide false-positive test results. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is an example of a nucleic acid amplification test. This test can also be completed on a urine sample.
Direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA)
This speedy test also looks for Chlamydia antigens.
Nucleic acid hybridization tests (DNA probe test)
A probe test locates Chlamydia DNA. A probe test is quite precise but is not as sensitive as nucleic acid amplification tests.
A culture is a unique cup that enables the Chlamydia bacteria to develop. This test is a bit pricier, and the results take more time (5 to 7 days) compared to the other tests. The culture has to be completed in a lab.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA/EIA)
This fast test locates components (Chlamydia antigens) that provoke the immune system to battle Chlamydia infection.