What is chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK and is easily passed on during sex. If left untreated it can lead to serious long-term health problems, including infertility.
- Unprotected vaginal sex
- Unprotected anal sex
- Unprotected oral sex
- Your genitals coming into contact with your partner’s genitals
- Sharing sex toys when they’re not washed or covered with a new condom
- Sexual fluid from the penis or vagina even without penetration
Chlamydia cannot be passed on through casual contact, including kissing and hugging, or from sharing baths, towels, swimming pools, toilet seats or cutlery.
What are the symptoms?
Most people don’t experience any symptoms so are unaware they are infected.
In women, chlamydia can cause pain or a burning sensation when urinating, a vaginal discharge, pain in the lower abdomen during or after sex, and bleeding during or after sex, or between periods. It can also cause heavy periods.
In men, chlamydia can cause pain or a burning sensation when urinating, a white, cloudy or watery discharge from the tip of the penis, and pain or tenderness in the testicles.
It’s also possible to have a chlamydia infection in your rectum (bottom), throat or eyes.
Getting tested for chlamydia
- Testing for chlamydia is done with a urine test or a swab test.
- You don’t always have to have a physical examination by a nurse or doctor.
- Anyone can get a free and confidential chlamydia test at a sexual health clinic, a GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinic or a GP surgery.
- It’s best to get a Chlamydia test every 12 months (or every time you change your partner). Sometimes areas offer dual testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea so you can provide one urine sample and get tested for both.
Treating chlamydia
Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics.
Preventing chlamydia
- Use a condom every time you have vaginal or anal sex
- Use a condom during oral sex
- Don’t share sex toys
Want more information?
Ask your school nurse, visit the Bexley Sexual Health Website, visit your local young person’s sexual health clinic or visit NHS Choices website.