Chlamydia: The Silent Infection

General
June 15, 2023

Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium C. trachomatis, is a highly prevalent and dangerous sexually transmitted infection (STI) that poses a significant threat to public health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is the most frequently reported bacterial infectious disease in the United States.

What makes chlamydia particularly concerning is its ability to remain largely unnoticed, silently wreaking havoc on the health of those affected. In fact, the majority of people (between 50% and 70%)who have chlamydia never notice symptoms. This hidden nature of the infection, coupled with its mode of transmission through sexual contact, contributes to its high transmissibility and underscores the urgent need for awareness and effective detection methods.

Left untreated, chlamydia can lead to severe health complications, particularly among women, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. Men can also suffer from epididymitis and, in rare cases, infertility. Moreover, untreated chlamydia increases the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.

Traditional testing methods often fall short in detecting chlamydia, resulting in delays in treatment and further transmission. For instance, culture testing can take up to five days to provide results, impeding timely treatment and contributing to the spread of the infection.

Flow Health's STI panel test is an advanced diagnostic method that enables rapid and accurate detection of chlamydia using a single sample. This highly sensitive and specific Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing technology detects the genetic material of the chlamydia bacteria from urine or swab samples, delivering reliable results in just 24 hours.

Flow Health PCR testing aligns with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for early identification, prompt treatment, and prevention of further chlamydia transmission. Optional rectal and oropharyngeal testing ensures comprehensive screening, providing peace of mind and protection for your sexual health.

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