QUESTION
Is it possible to have Chlamydia for a long time and then suddenly show symptoms?

ANSWER
Yes. While most people who have chlamydia don’t know it, symptoms can show up 1-3 weeks after infection. For women, symptoms can include pain and itching of the vulva, vaginal discharge, bleeding, and pain during sex or urination. Men can experience penile discharge or pain or burning with urination. Chlamydia is common and 5-10% of sexually active teens and young adults age less than 25 years have it. Fortunately, it is easy to test for and easy to cure.

Of course, the only way you can figure out if you do have Chlamydia is to get tested. For more information on STD testing, visit City Clinic or STDTest.org or HIVTest.org.

To your health,
Dr. K