Your Period Started Before a Postal Chlamydia Swab: Check Your Kit's Instructions
PeriodsArticleAsk the provider about the exact kit you have rather than assuming you must postpone.
If your period starts before you use a postal chlamydia swab, read the instructions supplied with your kit. Ask its provider to clarify anything uncertain rather than assuming menstruation means you must delay.1
Does a period always mean postponing?
Sexual Health St Helens1 says patients can still test during their period and should follow the instructions carefully, especially for a swab. That is guidance for its postal service. Check what your own provider says about your exact kit.1
What can I ask?
Try: “My period has started, and I have this postal chlamydia swab kit. Do its instructions allow testing during menstruation? Can you clarify the directions I am unsure about?”
Have the kit name, provider and enclosed instructions available when contacting the service. Explain which part is unclear so the answer concerns the test you actually have.
What should I keep with the kit?
Keep the provider’s clarification with the original instructions. Ask again if the answer does not match the pack you received.
Period, Handled includes a visit script. Use it to organize questions for the service. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- Sexual Health St HelensChlamydia Postal Testing Help (opens in a new tab)abc
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