QUESTION
My girlfriend tested positive for chlamydia. I tested negative. Is this possible?

ANSWER
Yes, it is possible for one partner to test positive and the other to test negative for chlamydia. Some people can clear the infection on their own.

To avoid get chlamydia, be sure your girlfriend gets treatment. Chlamydia is curable with the use of antibiotics, so she can go to City Clinic or her local health care provider. After starting antibiotics, she must not have sex for one week and go back to her doctor if there are still symptoms after the treatment. In addition, she should get a repeat chlamydia test at 3 months.

Condoms help prevent the spread of chlamydia. Even though you tested negative, you are still at risk for chlamydia if you have sex with her if she remains untreated. For more information on chlamydia, visit http://www.sfcityclinic.org/stdbasics/chlamydia.asp.

To your health,
Dr. K