How to prepare for a video visit about Chlamydia (Suspected) - Testing & Treatment Pathway

Audience: pediatric

If you or your child might have chlamydia, a common bacterial infection, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help start testing and treatment quickly. Chlamydia often has no symptoms, but it can cause pain or unusual discharge. During the video visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, sexual history, and may guide you on how to get tested. Testing usually involves a urine sample or a swab from the affected area. Treatment typically includes antibiotics that are safe and effective. It is important to follow the provider's instructions carefully and to avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete. This guide helps you prepare for a video visit about suspected chlamydia, what to expect, and how to take care afterward. Remember, this information is for education and does not replace in-person medical care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe lower abdominal or pelvic pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever or chills during or after treatment — contact healthcare provider or emergency services.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge with a bad smell — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and sexual history review.
• Guidance on how and where to get tested for chlamydia.
• Prescribing antibiotics for uncomplicated chlamydia infections.
• Providing education on treatment and prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or collecting samples during the visit.
• Managing severe or complicated infections needing urgent care.
• Handling allergic reactions or medication side effects requiring emergency treatment.
• Diagnosing conditions that require laboratory or imaging tests beyond chlamydia testing.

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common infection caused by bacteria that can affect the genitals, throat, or rectum. It often does not cause symptoms, especially in young people. If symptoms do appear, they may include pain during urination, unusual discharge, or discomfort. Untreated chlamydia can lead to serious health problems, so early testing and treatment are important.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, private place where you feel comfortable talking. Have a list of any symptoms, questions, or concerns ready. If possible, have your medical history and any medications you take nearby. Make sure your device is charged and connected to the internet. Be ready to discuss sexual activity openly and honestly, as this helps the provider give the best advice.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about symptoms and sexual history. They may explain how and where to get tested for chlamydia, as testing usually requires a urine sample or swab. The provider will discuss treatment options, usually antibiotics, and explain how to take them safely. They will also advise on how to prevent spreading the infection to others.

After the Video Visit: Testing and Treatment

Follow the provider's instructions to get tested as soon as possible. If antibiotics are prescribed, take the full course even if symptoms improve. Avoid sexual contact until treatment is finished and your provider confirms it is safe. Inform any recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated if needed. Monitor your symptoms and contact your provider if they worsen or do not improve.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction to medication, seek in-person medical care immediately. Also, if symptoms persist despite treatment or if you have questions that cannot be answered during the video visit, an in-person exam may be necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet space for the video visit.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a good internet connection.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and questions to discuss.
• Have your medical history and current medications available.
• Be ready to discuss sexual activity openly and honestly.
• Know where you can access testing facilities if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Complete any recommended chlamydia testing promptly.
• Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed.
• Avoid sexual contact until treatment is finished and approved by your provider.
• Inform recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated.
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening or new symptoms to your provider.
• Attend any follow-up appointments if recommended.

FAQs

What is chlamydia and how do people get it?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection commonly spread through sexual contact. It can infect the genitals, throat, or rectum. Using condoms and having open communication with partners can reduce the risk.

Can chlamydia be cured?

Yes, chlamydia is usually cured with a course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to take all medication as directed even if symptoms go away.

Do I need to tell my sexual partners if I have chlamydia?

Yes, informing recent sexual partners is important so they can get tested and treated. This helps prevent spreading the infection and reinfection.

What if I don’t have any symptoms? Should I still get tested?

Yes, many people with chlamydia have no symptoms but can still spread the infection and have health problems. Testing is important if you have risk factors or have had sexual contact with someone who has chlamydia.

Can I get tested for chlamydia at home?

Some places offer home testing kits for chlamydia, but availability varies. Your healthcare provider can guide you on safe and reliable testing options.

Sources

1. Chlamydia — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Chlamydia Infection — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) — World Health Organization (WHO).
4. Chlamydia: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.