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Could I Have Had Oral Chlamydia Before Starting Antibiotics? [URGENT]

3/19/2025, 6:10:18 PMMale25-34

I am a 20-year-old woman weighing 140 pounds and I’m of African descent. Recently, I received a positive result for chlamydia, which has left me feeling apprehensive about the possibility of having oral chlamydia as well. My concern arises from the fact that I engaged in protected intercourse, but had unprotected oral sex prior to receiving my positive test result. I underwent an oral swab two days after I commenced antibiotic treatment, which returned a negative result. This leads me to wonder if it’s possible that I might have had oral chlamydia prior, but the antibiotics had already begun to take effect by the time I got tested. What are the odds of this scenario?

Drug AllergiesAnaphylaxisAllergy & Immunology

Answers (1)

Cony

3/19/2025, 6:10:36 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's completely understandable to feel concerned about the possibility of having oral chlamydia, especially after receiving a positive chlamydia test. Let's clarify your situation:

  1. Key Points: You may have had oral chlamydia before beginning antibiotic treatment, but the negative oral swab two days into treatment suggests that the infection likely wasn't present.

  2. Explanation: Chlamydia can infect the throat, but it's less common to test positive for oral chlamydia compared to genital infections. If you had a negative oral swab after starting antibiotics, it's likely that the antibiotics were effective in clearing any potential infection, as they work relatively quickly.

  3. Next Steps:

    • Continue Medication: Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure that all residual infection is treated.
    • Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms after completing your medication, such as sore throat or unusual discharge.
    • Follow Up Testing: Consider discussing with your healthcare provider about follow-up testing for both oral and genital chlamydia after completing treatment, usually about 1-2 weeks after finishing your antibiotics.
    • Safe Practices: In the future, using barriers (like dental dams or condoms) during oral sex can help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Remember, it's always good to express any ongoing concerns to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and reassurance. You're taking responsible steps by getting tested and treated. If you have any more questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!

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