[Question #13301] Question on STD testing

 
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16 days ago

On July 10th, I had unprotected vaginal intercourse with a average European woman while I was in a relationship. I have since informed my partner, and she has chosen to forgive me. Following that incident, we have had protected intercourse using condoms 5–6 times between then and August 4th, when I underwent a NAAT test for Chlamydia. The test came back negative. There were no condom failures that I noticed, and I have not experienced any symptoms. I have a few questions I hope you can help clarify: Chlamydia Testing: Can I rely on the negative NAAT result to confirm that I did not contract Chlamydia, or is it possible that I had a short-term infection that cleared naturally within the 24-day window before testing? Condom Effectiveness: If I did have Chlamydia and it cleared before the test, how effective would condom use have been in protecting my partner during our intercourse? Partner Testing: Given the situation, should my girlfriend also get tested for Chlamydia? Other STIs: Is testing for HIV or syphilis recommended in this case? If so, is it correct that the most reliable results would come from testing at 90 days post-exposure? Thank you very much for your time and guidance.

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Edward W. Hook M.D.
16 days ago
Welcome to the Forum.  I'll be glad to comment.   The encounter you describe was low risk.  Most "average" European women do not have chlamydia and most single exposures to those persons who do have infection do not result in infection.

1.  Your NAAT test for chlamydia was taken at a time when results are reliable.  You can rely on the results.  You did not acquire chlamydia from the encounter you describe.  The time period you describe is too short for an established chlamydial infection to resolve without therapy.

2.  A condom worn throughout the exposure would reduce the risk of transmission of infection to a partner by well over 90%.

3.  From what you describe, your girlfriend in not at risk from your casual encounter.  From a scientific perspective she does not need testing.

4.  Testing for STIs such as HIV or syphilis will be more than 95% reliable at 4 weeks and entirely conclusive at 6 weeks after your casual encounter.

I think you are worrying more than you need to.  I hope the information I have provided is helpful.  EWH
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15 days ago
thx doc. All clear then. 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
15 days ago
Glad to help.  EWH---