You may have been taught that sexually transmitted infections (STI) like chlamydia are shameful, the result of sex with too many partners, or that they can’t be cured. None of this is true.
Here’s what you need to know about chlamydia:
Chlamydia can easily be cured
The most common cures range from one dose of medicine to a weeklong treatment. Your partner(s) should get treated too, so they don’t spread chlamydia back to you or to anyone else.
Ashley Kleinjans, a Case Management Supervisor here at Community Health Plan of Washington, says that it’s normal to be anxious if you think you may have chlamydia. However: “You are not alone. Many providers you might talk to are treating STIs all day, every day, and STIs can be so common,” she said.
Safe sex makes a difference
Condoms, dental dams, and regular STI testing can help prevent chlamydia. Remember, if you get chlamydia and receive treatment, you could still get it again if you aren’t careful.
Of course, as Ashley reminded us, “Safe sex and prevention is great, but life happens … so, symptoms or not, when you have a new sexual partner, have a talk and get tested. Knowing is the best plan.”
You can get tested for free or at low cost
If you’re an Apple Health (Medicaid) member, you can get tested for STIs for free. Community Health Plan of Washington can help you connect to sexual health resources in your area.
If you’re worried you have chlamydia, or just want more information about sexual health care, you can learn more here. You can also give CHPW’s Care Management team a call at 1-866-418-7003.
Sources:
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/chlamydia
https://www.cdc.gov/std/saw/resources.htm