Iii Std Testing Options In Houston Tx
Choose the STD testing option youre most comfortable with:
- Private clinic: Your primary care physician or OB-GYN can order STD tests.
- Local lab: Some labs offer direct testing without a doctors orders.
- Community clinic: A community clinic, such as city or county clinics, or nonprofit organizations may offer STD testing. Some offer STD tests for free or low cost.
At home: You can test for STDs at home using a kit and send your sample to a lab for analysis.
Recommended Reading: Does Chlamydia Cause Cloudy Urine
Yes You Can Get Online Treatment For Chlamydia
Reviewed by Theresa H. Care Delivery Manager & Family Nurse Practitioner
Often called the silent STI chlamydia is a super common, highly treatable sexually transmitted infection . In fact, its the most commonly reported STI in the United States. Whether you want to get tested for chlamydia and other STIs or have a partner who recently tested positive, you can get the care you need online.
At Virtuwell, we have the answers and support you need to get diagnosed and treated for chlamydia discreetly, affordably and quickly.
All Info Shared With A Doctor Or Other Hcp Is Confidential
Any personal information that your clinician asks for is used to give you the best possible care and to contact you about your results.
The that labs and HCPs notify them anytime theyve received a positive STI result for:
But your name and other identifying info arent attached to this information.
Recommended Reading: How Quickly Does Chlamydia Show Up
What Happens During A Chlamydia Test
Chlamydia can look like other common STDs like gonorrhea, so your nurse or doctor might test for a few infections.
The idea of getting tested may seem scary, but try not to freak out. STD testing is a regular part of being a responsible person and taking care of your health. The good news is chlamydia is totally curable with medication so the sooner you know you have it, the faster you can get rid of it.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Chlamydia
Most commonly, people who have chlamydia dont show any signs or symptoms. Thats why its so important for anyone who is sexually active to get tested for common STIs annually or when they have a new partner. If left untreated, chlamydia can permanently damage a womans reproductive health and lead to infertility.
When symptoms do present, they may not be noticeable until a few weeks after exposure.
For women and people with vaginas, symptoms are similar to those of a yeast infection or UTI and include:
- Changes in discharge
- Burning sensation when peeing
Similarly, chlamydia symptoms in men and those with penises, can easily be confused with other conditions and include:
- Burning or itching
- Pain and swelling in one or both testicles
If you experience these symptoms, get tested. Keep in mind though, that most people who have chlamydia dont experience any symptoms. Thats why its so important to get tested regularly.
Read Also: Chlamydia At Home Test Walmart
How To Choose The Right Test For You
With dozens of at-home testing kits available, it can be hard to choose the right test for you. After all, what does a good at-home STD testing kit look like? What should it entail? What do you need?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your needs will vary, depending on your situation and circumstances. Whats more, they may change over time.
Use this chart to help you determine which test is right for you.
| Your situation | |
| X | X |
You should also make sure your test is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration . To determine if your product is FDA-approved, check the FDAs website.
You May Like: Can Bv Cause Positive Chlamydia Test
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test
The most common test for chlamydia, this is a simple, non-invasive test during which you collect a swab or urine sample yourself . A doctor can assist in taking a swab if you prefer.
The sample is then sent to be tested to see if there is genetic material that indicates the presence of chlamydia bacteria. Results come back quicker than the traditional culture test.
Read Also: How Easy Is It To Get Rid Of Chlamydia
Does The Nhs Provide Testing Too
Yes you can get the chlamydia test on the NHS. You can get tested whether or not you have symptoms.
You can get tested at either one of the following and should choose the one you are most comfortable with:
- A sexual health clinic
- Most contraceptive or young peoples clinic
- Some pharmacies
- Abortion, antenatal or gynaecology services may also offer women a chlamydia test
- Local councils also pay for free testing in men and women under the age of 25 in their area, as part of the NCSP they may also locally advertise outreach testing in places such as colleges, youth clubs or military bases
How soon after sex do I need to get the test? you can get tested straight away, but you may be advised to have another test after two weeks, as chlamydia is more difficult to detect in the early stage.
Can I do the test myself? yes, you dont necessarily need to be examined by a healthcare professional and you can usually collect the sample yourself.
Home testing if you dont want to visit your GP or a clinic, you can order a free NHS home self-testing kit. This is available online in certain areas from www.nhs.uk/. This may be quicker and easier.
What does the test involve? a urine or swab sample is needed. The swab is similar to a cotton bud but it is smaller and rounder. The swab is wiped over parts of your body that could be infected and it easily picks up a sample of cells or discharge.
Gonorrhea Test For Men & Women
According to the CDC, Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that can infect both men and women. It can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, and throat. Like Chlamydia, a lot of men and women do not have symptoms however, damage is still being done. Symptoms of Gonorrhea are again, much like a UTI with abnormal discharge, painful urination or painful bowel movements in both men and women.
You May Like: Cpt Code For Gonorrhea And Chlamydia Urine Test
How Much Does Sti Treatment Cost
Costs of treating STIs will vary depending on what type of treatment is required and the duration.
For example, Chlamydia requires an antibiotic treatment typically costing between $10 – $20. Its even cheaper if you have a Healthcare card.
HIV, however,can typically involve costs for an ongoing regimen of three different medicines, subsidised through the Australian Governments Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme . HIV medication is also cheaper if you have a Medicare card.
For accurate treatment costs speak to your GP or healthcare professional. If costs are an issue ask your GP, healthcare professional or your local pharmacist about what options may be available.
What Is A Chlamydia Carrier
Whenever we talk about a carrier in medical terms, we are effectively talking about someone who can infect others with an infectious condition. Anyone with chlamydia is carrying the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria in their body. This bacteria is easily passed on through unprotected sex whether the person has physical symptoms or not.
Don’t Miss: How Soon To Get Tested For Chlamydia
What Are The Symptoms Of Chlamydia
Chlamydia symptoms are not always present, with only 3 in 10 women and 5 in 10 men experiencing symptoms. As a result, people do not know they have the infection and spread it unknowingly.
The majority of women remain unaware of the disease they are suffering from until it causes serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease.
Some of the symptoms that may occur include:
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Also Check: Azithromycin 500 Mg Treatment For Chlamydia
Can Chlamydia Be Cured
Yes, chlamydia can be cured with the right treatment. It is important that you take all of the medication your doctor prescribes to cure your infection. When taken properly it will stop the infection and could decrease your chances of having complications later on. You should not share medication for chlamydia with anyone.
Repeat infection with chlamydia is common. You should be tested again about three months after you are treated, even if your sex partner was treated.
Also Check: Does Cvs Minute Clinic Test For Chlamydia
You May Like: Antibiotics For Chlamydia In Stores
What Are The Alternatives To Nhs Treatment
You can also choose to pay for a chlamydia test or treatment at a private clinic.
Convenient home testing you can also purchase a home self-testing kit online privately. The accuracy of these tests varies and its important to buy from a reputable and recognised website like Superdrug Online Doctor.
Ordering treatment online you can order chlamydia treatment online if you or your partner have been diagnosed with chlamydia. To place your order with Superdrug Online Doctor:
- Fill in our short medical questionnaire
- Your online doctor will review your request and approve treatment if appropriate
- Prescription and delivery are included
We offer chlamydia test kits if you would like to order them online.
Do natural remedies work for chlamydia? no, there is currently no evidence that these treat or cure chlamydia.
No treatment is not a good option if left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious long-term complications:
- Chlamydia can spread to other reproductive organs in women and cause pelvic inflammatory disease this can cause blockages in the fallopian tubes, infertility and ectopic pregnancy
- Women may also experience pain or inflammation in the liver
- Men may experience an infection of the testicles, which can possibly reduce fertility
- Both men and women may rarely experience inflammation of the joints. This is more common in men and is called Sexually Acquired Reactive Arthritis
We Offer Free Std/sti Testing & Treatment For Chlamydia & Gonorrhea For Men And Women Get Tested Today
Our free Sexually Transmitted Infection testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea is done by a urine-based test. When a positive test result returns, we offer free treatment with our physician-recommended antibiotics.
We also offer health education and discuss symptoms of other common STIs. If needed, we will provide you with referrals for full STD & STI testing, such as testing for HIV/AIDS, Herpes, Hepatitis B, Genital Warts, HPV, Crabs, Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis.
Please note that for test accuracy, our policy requires that you abstain from sexual contact for 7 days before your appointment. Please schedule your appointment accordingly.
Recommended Reading: Where To Buy Chlamydia Test Kit
What Are The Side Effects Of Chlamydia Treatment
People who are allergic to the common medicines given to treat chlamydia may be given different antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or erythromycin.
Some people experience side effects during treatment, but these are usually mild. The most common side effects include tummy pain, diarrhea, feeling sick, and vaginal thrush in women.
Read Also: Azithromycin 500 Mg 2 Pills For Chlamydia
Can I Have Sex During And/or After My Treatment For Chlamydia
While antibiotics are an effective way to cure chlamydia, it’s important to abstain from sexual contact for 7-days after your last dose of the antibiotic and/or a follow-up STI screening by your healthcare provider confirms the chlamydia infection is no longer present.
Re-infection from previous sexual partners is also possible if you have received treatment for chlamydia and your partner hasn’t .
Your healthcare provider and their team will provide advice around this in the event you are exposed or test positive for chlamydia.
Also Check: Do Guys Always Show Symptoms Of Chlamydia
Things To Be Aware Of With Chlamydia Treatment
-
Side effects occasionally you might get a rash as a side effect from Doxycycline if you are exposed to too much sunlight and therefore should protect yourself from the sun during the treatment. It can also cause nausea and vomiting but the risk of this can be reduced by taking the medication with food or fluids and sitting up for at least 30 minutes afterwards.
For a full list of side effects always read the manufacturers leaflet before starting doxycycline.
Alternative treatments your doctor might suggest a different type of antibiotic if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or if you seem to have had chlamydia for a long time. Ofloxacin and Erythromycin are other common antibiotics.
Contacting partners if a test shows that youve got chlamydia, you should contact recent sexual partners and let them know. The NHS has specialist sexual health advisors who can help you do this, or who can offer to do it for you if youd prefer not to have the conversation yourself.
Is It Possible To Save Money On Nhs Prescriptions
Yes, it is. If you are someone who picks up NHS prescription medication regularly from the pharmacy, then you may benefit from applying for a NHS prescription prepayment certificate .
A PPC is a card that you pay for and display whenever you visit the pharmacy to pick up NHS prescription medication. Two types are available:
You can pay for your PPC online, over the phone or by post. If you opt for a three-month certificate, you will have to pay the one-off sum of £30.25 when you apply. If you opt for a 12-month certificate, you can either pay the one-off sum of £108.10 when you apply, or set up a Direct Debit .
Once you have applied and paid for your certificate , you will receive your card. You can then show this card in place of payment every time you pick up NHS prescription medication simply give the pharmacist your valid, in-date card and they will be able to hand over your medication free of charge.
You can also save money by getting your NHS prescriptions delivered for free with LloydsDirect by LloydsPharmacy.
You May Like: How Much Chlamydia Test Cost
Don’t Miss: How To Clear Chlamydia At Home
How Long Does It Take For Chlamydia Symptoms To Clear
When taking antibiotics , symptoms usually settle quickly. Pain on passing urine and discharge go within a week, pelvic or testicular pain can take two weeks and menstrual irregularities should improve by the next cycle. Always complete the full course of antibiotic.
Chlamydia is unlikely to go away without treatment. Although symptoms may subside temporarily, infection may persist in the body without treatment. It is important to seek diagnosis and treatment to get rid of the infection.
Best Over The Counter Antibiotics For Chlamydia
In order to get best over the counter antibiotics for chlamydia, you should onsult your doctor, your doctor will not turn his back on you, often time you might not get rid of Chlamydia by going to counter medication. Sometime you may have false positive chlamydia test result, so it is better to consult doctor. Moreover if you fail to treat this disease you might end up with PID which is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and then you will also consult your doctor and by that time things will be worse. So the best thing is to go to a doctor if you notice the symptoms. But if you must use, then go for Amoxicillin, azithromycin, erythromycin, Doxycycline, levofloxacin, and ofloxacin. But always consult your doctor before taken the pills.
Read Also: Can I Buy Antibiotics Over The Counter For Chlamydia
Where Can I Buy A Chlamydia Test Over The Counter
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases and can be difficult to diagnose. It can be very similar to gonorrhea, so it can be scary to ask your partner about an STD test. Fortunately, chlamydia can be cured 100% with the proper medication. If you suspect that you have the condition, you can buy a cheep swab test and start treatment right away.
Regular testing is essential for preventing the spread of the disease, and you should have it done by a doctor or a sexual health professional at least once a year. If you suspect that you have a STI, it is best to get tested regularly. It will give you peace of mind and make you more aware of the symptoms. It is also a good idea to ask your partner about their status before having sex with them, which may seem intimidating but can make your partner feel valued. Getting tested is the first step to taking care of yourself and your partner.
In addition to getting a chlamydia swab, you can also go to a pharmacy or health store and purchase a swab to rub your genitals. The swab is very easy to use and will provide you with accurate results in minutes. You should get a retest three months after the infection has been treated to prevent the infection from spreading. You should also get a retest with your sexual partners, and be sure to discuss it with them.
Also Check: If You Have Intercourse With Someone Who Has Chlamydia
Hepatitis B Titer Test Cpt Code
This includes health care workers, people with weakened. Titer) evaluation of possible immunity in individuals who are at increased risk for exposure to Hepatitis B Vaccination, Screening, and Likage to Care: Best Practice Advice from American College of Physicians and the Centers for. What are the various serologic tests for hepatitis B? Every vignette contains
Also Check: How To Tell If You Have Chlamydia Men
How You Prevent It
Remember to always practice safer sex and use condoms. This will lower the risk of getting chlamydia or other STIs.
If you find out that you have chlamydia, your partner need to be told that they could have an infection – even if there aren’t any symptoms. If you have concerns about telling your partner, contact a public health nurse.
The public health nurse can suggest ways to handle the situation or they will contact your partner for you. Of course, your name will be kept confidential.