Chlamydia Test Test
A chlamydia test checks a sample of fluid from your body to find the bacteria that causes chlamydia, a common sexually transmitted infection.
What this test measures
A chlamydia test looks for the bacteria that causes chlamydia in a sample of fluid from your body, such as urine or a swab from the urethra, rectum, or vagina.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
A positive test result means you have been infected with chlamydia.
Lower-than-normal results
A negative test result means you did not have a chlamydia infection when the sample was collected.
Frequently asked questions
What is a chlamydia test?
A chlamydia test checks a sample of fluid from your body to look for the bacteria that causes chlamydia.
How is the sample collected?
The sample may be urine or fluid swabbed from your urethra, rectum, or vagina.
Who should get tested for chlamydia?
Sexually active people, especially those under 25, should get tested even without symptoms.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means you have been infected with chlamydia and need treatment with antibiotics.
What happens if chlamydia is not treated?
Untreated chlamydia can cause serious health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease in women and infertility in men.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Chlamydia Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.