Loading icon
Health Information Center

Talking to Your Doctor About Chlamydia

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Chlamydia

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with chlamydia. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to provide more details to the doctor.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to provide more details to the doctor.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Chlamydia

  • What is my diagnosis?
  • How serious is my condition?

About Your Risk of Getting Chlamydia

  • Based on my medical history and lifestyle, am I at risk for chlamydia?
  • How can I lower my risk?

About Treatment Options

  • What medicines can help me?
  • How long do I have to take them?
  • What are the benefits and side effects?
  • Will these medicines cause problems with the other medicines, over the counter products, or supplements that I am already taking?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • How risky is my lifestyle?
  • How do I know if I am using a condom the right way?
  • What is the best way to talk to my partner(s) about exposure?

About Treatment Goals

  • Will I have lasting effects?
  • How do I know if I am cured?
  • How often should I be rechecked by a doctor?

References

  • Chlamydia—CDC detailed fact sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/STDFact-chlamydia-detailed.htm.
  • Chlamydia genital infection. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chlamydia-genital-infection.
  • Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/default.htm.
  • Tips for talking to your doctor. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor.

Contributors

  • Elizabeth Margaret Prusak, MD
Last Updated:
2022-12-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.