What if I test positive?
It is important to discuss treatment options for you and your sexual partner(s), as well as additional testing you may need, with a healthcare provider.
Here are three options a healthcare provider may suggest:
Get treated
If you test positive for an infection, both you and your sexual partner(s) should talk to a healthcare provider about treatment. Antibiotics may be recommended and in most cases can effectively treat chlamydia and gonorrhea. It is important to complete treatment before having sex to ensure that you and your partner(s) are protected.Tell your partner
You should let any sexual partners from the last three months know that you have tested positive. They may also be infected and need to get tested and treated.Get retested
You should retest after 3 months to check for reinfection and continue prevention behaviors.
How do I talk to my sexual partners about STIs?
If you find out that you have an STI while you're in a relationship, talk to your partner or partners as soon as possible. If you or your partner have multiple sex partners, it's important they all get tested and treated. The most helpful thing you can do is listen to your partner's concerns and fears and offer information about the STI. Give your partner time to take in the information.
What is the treatment?
If you test positive for an infection, both you and your sexual partner(s) should talk to a healthcare provider about treatment. Antibiotics may be recommended and in most cases can effectively treat chlamydia and gonorrhea. It is important to complete treatment before having sex to ensure that you and your partner(s) are protected.
What should I do if I have symptoms?
If you are having symptoms of chlamydia or gonorrhea or if you are pregnant, please talk to a healthcare provider. If you think that you may have been exposed recently, consider waiting 7-21 days since exposure, as tests may not accurately detect the infection.