Prevention

The best way to avoid the spread of Chlamydia is to not have sex, or to have sex with only one partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.

If you have sex, always use a condom.

Latex condoms with a water-based lubricant can reduce the risk of spreading of chlamydia. If you're allergic to latex, use plastic (polyurethane) condoms with a water-based lubricant.

If you have more than one sex partner.

Get an STD test any time you change sex partners or are concerned about the possibility of having an STD, even if you don't have symptoms.

Get checked for chlamydia and other STDs regularly.

Yearly chlamydia testing is suggested for the following people:

• All women 25 years of age and younger who have sex
• Older women at risk (a new sex partner you have known for less than six months or multiple sex partners)
• All pregnant women

Get tested for chlamydia if:

• You or your partner has signs of chlamydia.
• You do not use condoms regularly.
• You are under 20 and sexually active.
• You have had sex with more than one person in the past 3 months.
• You are your partner has gonorrhea or another STD.

Stop having sex and see a doctor immediately if you have any of the following genital symptoms:

• Discharge or burning during urination
• An unusual sore or rash

Stay with one partner.

Have sex with only one person. Both you and your partner should get checked for chlamydia and other STDs before you have sex. Neither one of you should ever have sex with anyone else.

Don't use drugs or alcohol.

People who are drunk or high do not always make careful choices. You more likely to do things that put yourself and others at risk for STD.

More Information

See your doctor, visit the STD Clinic webpages or call the Southern Nevada Health District STD Clinic at (702) 759-0708.