Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Even if both partners have tested negative for chlamydia in the past, it is still possible to contract the infection through unprotected sex with an infected partner.
How is chlamydia transmitted?
Chlamydia is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and is spread through sexual contact with an infected partner. The bacteria can be transmitted through vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who has chlamydia.
Here are the main ways chlamydia is transmitted:
- Vaginal sex
- Oral sex
- Anal sex
Chlamydia bacteria can infect the cervix in women and the urethra and rectum in both men and women. Chlamydia can also infect the throat after oral sex with an infected partner.
Can you get chlamydia if both partners have tested negative?
Yes, it is possible to get chlamydia even if a current partner tests negative. Here are some reasons why:
- One partner may have a very recent infection that hasn’t shown up on a test yet. It can take 1-3 weeks after exposure for chlamydia to show up on a test.
- One partner may have been exposed since their last STI test. Tests can only show a negative or positive result at the time of testing.
- There is always a chance of a false negative test result. No STI test is 100% accurate.
Because a negative test result doesn’t guarantee someone is STI-free, the only way to prevent STIs like chlamydia is by correctly using condoms or abstaining from sex.
What are the symptoms of chlamydia?
Many people with chlamydia don’t experience any symptoms, especially in the initial stages. Chlamydia can remain asymptomatic for months or even years.
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis
- Bleeding between periods or heavier periods (for women)
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Lower abdominal pain
Without treatment, chlamydia can lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women and epididymitis in men. It can also cause infertility in both sexes.
Should I get tested for chlamydia regularly?
The CDC recommends the following testing guidelines for chlamydia:
- Women under 25 years old should get tested annually if they are sexually active.
- Women over 25 years old may not need annual screening if they are at low risk (e.g. currently in a long-term monogamous relationship).
- Pregnant women should get tested again in their third trimester.
- Women with HIV should get tested at least annually.
- Men who have sex with men should get tested annually.
- Sexually active gay and bisexual men should have a chlamydia test every 3-6 months.
Anyone who has multiple or new partners should get tested for chlamydia every 3-6 months. If you test positive or think you may be infected, make sure any recent partners get tested as well.
How accurate are chlamydia tests?
There are two main types of tests used to diagnose chlamydia:
- Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs): This is the most common test and detects chlamydial DNA in urine or from a swab sample. Results take 1-3 days and are over 95% accurate.
- Culture test: This test tries to grow chlamydia bacteria from a cervical swab or urine sample. It is less commonly used now but is still considered the “gold standard.” Results take a few days and accuracy is 85-90%.
No test is 100% accurate, especially if testing is done too soon after exposure. False positives are rare with NAATs but false negatives are more common. Repeat testing after a few weeks may be necessary if infection is suspected.
Conclusion
In summary, it is definitely possible to get chlamydia from a partner who recently tested negative. The bacteria can be transmitted through any unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner. To reduce the risk of chlamydia, sexually active individuals should get screened regularly and always use protection with new or casual partners.
While a negative test result may provide some peace of mind, it’s important to remember that STIs can be acquired anytime there is unprotected sex. Regular screening, open communication with partners, and consistent condom use are the best ways to protect against chlamydia and other STIs.