First, take a deep breath! Chlamydia is common and can usually be treated very effectively. Here are the next steps you should take right now to get better:

See a Doctor

You can usually go to your general practitioner, gynaecologist, or urologist. If you're unsure about that or feel uncomfortable, here are some other options that have proven helpful:

• HIV specialist practices or practices with an infectious disease focus
  
• Doctors who explicitly offer sexual health consultations or HIV care
  
• Dermatology practices specializing in sexually transmitted diseases
  
• Outpatient infectious disease clinics at university hospitals
  

Bring Your Test Results 

Show your doctor your test report (PDF on your phone or printed out). This helps them get an overview of what was tested and what needs to be done. If you have symptoms, mention what they are and how long you've had them. It's completely normal for your doctor to ask about your sexual contacts. It helps with a thorough assessment of your case. You decide what you want to share.

Treatment

A chlamydia infection is usually treated with specific antibiotic tablets taken for 7-10 days. Your doctor will explain exactly how to take them. Make sure to follow the medical instructions carefully.

Inform Your Partner(s)

There are definitely more fun conversations to have, but it's important and responsible to notify everyone you've had sexual contact with in the last six months. The incubation period for chlamydia is usually 1–3 weeks, but can be up to six weeks. You'll be helping to break chains of infection and protect others. You can find more tips on how to best inform sexual partners on our blog.

Keep in Mind

• Chlamydia is curable
  
• You're not alone. Around 300,000 people are diagnosed with chlamydia every year in Germany alone
  
• Don't feel ashamed. Anyone can get STIs and it's not your fault. Doctors treat them daily
  
• Early treatment prevents long-term complications
  
• Most people with chlamydia have no symptoms. You were responsible and got tested
  

If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call the doctor's office. Better to ask one time too many than to worry unnecessarily.