How Long Does it Take for Chlamydia to Show up on a Test?

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections  (STIs) in Canada and around the world, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Despite its prevalence, it’s an infection that can be managed effectively with timely intervention.

Recent data from the Public Health Agency of Canada reveals that reported cases of chlamydia have been steadily increasing, with a 22% rise between 2012 and 2019. This upward trend underscores the importance of awareness, regular testing, and prompt treatment.

In this article, we’ll explore how you can protect yourself and others, understand the testing process, and recognize the early signs and symptoms of chlamydia. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing this common infection, and we’ll guide you through the steps to take for your health and peace of mind.

How long it takes for chlamydia to show on a test

The time from exposure to detection and diagnosis through testing is typically two to six weeks. As we outline in the next section, you can expect different timelines depending on the test.

Chlamydia is often referred to as a “silent” infection since in over 80 percent of cases, people do not exhibit any indications of an infection. This makes it extremely difficult to know when to get tested. Even if you do have some signs, they may be subtle and easy to overlook. 

As an STI, chlamydia is spread through sexual contact and can be present in any of those areas utilized. This can include vaginal, penile, oral or rectal.

Here are common — and not-so-common — symptoms of chlamydia below: 

Common symptoms in individuals with a vulva: 

• Vaginal discharge that is yellowish to green in colour, or has an unusual odour
• Burning feeling while urinating
• Discomfort or pain felt during sex
• Unexpected bleeding during or after sexual activity
• Pain in the lower abdomen or around the hip area

Common symptoms in individuals with a penis:  

• A yellowish or hazy discharge coming from the penis
• Pain or swelling in one or both testicles
• Burning sensation while peeing
• Itching or burning feeling at the opening of the penis

Possible symptoms in the throat: 

• Sore throat
• Possible redness in the throat
• Pain or discomfort while swallowing
• Swollen lymph nodes

Possible symptoms of the rectum:  

• Pain of the rectum
• Anal discharge or bleeding

Understanding chlamydia testing

Chlamydia can be diagnosed in several different ways. Some samples can be collected by swab or urine sample at home (while following proper technique) and given to a lab, or collected by a medical professional. The current most recommended testing method is the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). Types of tests for chlamydia can include: 

NAAT: This is the most prevalent and dependable test available for the detection of chlamydia. It is the preferred method of testing for both screening and investigating purposes.

The specimen for this type of testing can be obtained in two ways: 

1. A“first-void” urine sample. Meaning the person should not cleanse the area and the sample should be taken from the first portion of your urine stream. This method of collection is the preferred method for people with a penis. 
2. A swab of the area of suspected infection. This can be fluid or tissue sampled by swab from the cervix, vagina, urethra, rectum, or throat.
   

The sample is then sent to the lab where they amplify the DNA of the organism seen. It takes approximately one to three days to obtain results.

Rapid Tests: Rapid tests are newer to the market. This type of testing is growing in popularity as it can be completed in doctors’ offices and emergency departments, without having additional delays by sending the specimen to the lab. In late 2023, the FDA recently announced granting authorization for an “at home” test kit for chlamydia and gonorrhea. It utilizes either a swab or urine, and isolates antigens or antibodies, taking roughly 10 minutes for your result. The dependability of this test is still under review. 

Bacterial Culture Test: For this type of test, the doctor or healthcare provider will obtain a swab of the area to collect fluid or tissue. The swab is then sent to a lab where it is cultured. From the grown culture, the lab technician can then determine what bacteria has grown. This process generally takes two to three days, which leads to it getting used less than other testing methods.

Blood Tests: This requires blood to be drawn by a healthcare provider or lab technician. The sample will then be sent to a lab where the technicians test the blood for antigens or antibodies and can take up to seven days to process.

Having your test results sooner is essential to receive fast treatment, prevent complications associated with untreated infections, and reduce the amount of transmission between sexual partners. 

Treatment and management of chlamydia

Currently, there are no vaccines available for the prevention of a chlamydia infection. Although the scientific community is working on its development. Fortunately, chlamydia remains highly treatable with antibiotics.

Public Health Agency of Canada provides healthcare providers some guidance on selecting the best course of treatment based on factors like antibiotic resistance.

Recommended treatment options for chlamydia can include:

• For non-pregnant or non-lactating individuals:
  • Doxycycline: twice a week for 7 days, or 

• • Azithromycin: once only.

• Pregnant or lactating individuals:
  • Azithromycin: once only, or

• • Amoxicillin: 3 times a day for 7 days, or

• • Erythromycin: divided doses for 7 or 14 days depending on the desired dosage.

• Aged 9 – 18 years of age:
  • Doxycycline: in divided doses for 7 days, or

• • Azithromycin: once only.

Dealing with complications of untreated chlamydia

Chlamydia infects the cells lining your reproductive tract, and if left untreated, can have some serious health issues including:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): According to Health Canada, 40% of people with vaginas can develop PID if their chlamydia infection remains untreated. This can result in ectopic pregnancies, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. 
• Epididymitis: In people with penises, this condition can result in inflammation of the tube at the back of the scrotum that stores and carries sperm (epididymis). This can result in intense pain, make urination difficult, and potentially impair fertility.
• Reproductive tract cancers: In individuals with a female reproductive tract, there has been a correlation discovered between chlamydia and an increased risk of developing cancers. Approximately 80% of ovarian cancer patients were found to have an associated chlamydia infection.
• Reactive arthritis (also called Reiter’s Syndrome): This condition is characterized by joint discomfort and swelling in multiple joints. It can develop due to an infection in another part of the body, typically the genito-urinary system.
• Neonatal injury: Individuals who find themselves with a chlamydia infection while pregnant can possibly result in preterm delivery, infections in the baby’s eyes, or pneumonia.

Preventive measures to avoid chlamydia infection

The best way to protect your sexual health is through prevention. Listed below are the best methods to not only protect yourself but your sexual partners as well. 

• Condom use: The risk of transmission is substantially reduced by the consistent and correct usage of condoms during sexual activity.
• Mutual monogamy: By maintaining mutual monogamy and reducing the number of sexual partners, the risk of contracting chlamydia and other STIs can be significantly diminished.
• Partner communication: Candid conversations with your sexual partner about past testing experiences and STI statuses are essential.
• Regular screening: To prevent complications, spreading, and recurrent infections, it is imperative for sexually active people to have regular screening tests for STIs.
• Health education: By understanding the dangers of untreated infection and prevention methods for chlamydia, individuals are then able to make well-informed decisions about their sexual health.

What are the best ways to reduce the transmission of chlamydia?  

• Abstain from sex during treatment: Avoid any sexual activity until all partners are confirmed as infection-free.
• Partner notification and treatment: Immediately after being diagnosed with the infection of an STI, you must notify all sexual partners so that they may also undergo testing and receive treatment.  
• Follow-up testing: Health Canada recommends follow-up testing 3 weeks after treatment, and again at 3 months, as the rate of reinfection is high. A repeat test may also be indicated if results are considered “invalid”. Invalid results can be the result of contamination of the sample collection with things like feces, blood, or lubricants for example, if the kit was expired or the wrong type of swab was used for collection. 

When to consult a healthcare professional

If you are sexually active, and neglect any STI prevention methods, you should be seeking out regular screening. However, it is essential to identify the signs that would suggest the need for medical consultation to receive early treatment and minimize your risk of complications.

• Persistent symptoms: Seek out medical attention if your symptoms persist after receiving treatment. 
• Complications: If you are suffering from severe pain, abnormal discharge, or any other complications, you should seek out a medical expert’s opinion. 

Chlamydia is a common and frequently silent infection that, if left untreated, can result in severe health complications. Understanding the incubation period, identifying symptoms, and knowing the deadlines for proper testing are critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. 

Chlamydia infections can be effectively managed and prevented through the implementation of safe sexual practices, regular screening, and prompt consultations with healthcare professionals. 

If you are concerned that you may have chlamydia or have been exposed, it is imperative that you undergo testing immediately. Ensure the well-being of yourself and your companions by taking control of your sexual health and visiting a healthcare provider or testing center. 

If you are among the one in five Canadians who do not have access to a family physician, consider speaking to a primary care provider on Maple. Primary care providers — including doctors and nurse practitioners — on Maple are available over secure text, audio, and video call 24/7/365, in minutes. They can talk to you about any concerns you may have and advise on next steps. 

Regular testing and early intervention can make all the difference in preventing complications and ensuring your well-being. If you’re feeling uncertain or concerned, know that you’re not alone—chlamydia is common, and it’s something that can be managed effectively with the right care. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for support and guidance. Your health and peace of mind matter, and taking proactive steps today can help you stay healthy in the long run.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.