Why do I need a chlamydia test?The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than two and a half million Americans are infected with chlamydia every year. Chlamydia is especially common in sexually active people aged 15 to 24. Many individuals with chlamydia don't have symptoms, so the CDC and other health organizations recommend regular screening for groups at higher risk.These recommendations include yearly chlamydia tests for:Sexually active women under the age of 25Women over the age of 25 with certain risk factors, which include:Having new or multiple sex partnersPrevious chlamydia infectionsHaving a sex partner with an STDUsing condoms inconsistently or incorrectlyMen who have sex with menIn addition, chlamydia testing is recommended for:Pregnant women under the age of 25People who are HIV-positiveSome people with chlamydia will have symptoms. Your health care provider may order a test if you experience symptoms such as:For women:Stomach painAbnormal vaginal bleeding or dischargePain during sexPain when urinatingFrequent urinationFor men:Pain or tenderness in the testiclesSwollen scrotumPus or other discharge from the penisPain when urinatingFrequent urination
