About Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs (sexually transmitted infections) in the UK, and is usually passed on from person to person through unprotected sex. The diagnosis is made from a urine test or a vaginal swab test and if detected can usually be treated with a course of antibiotics. People with chlamydia may or may not notice any symptoms and so testing for this infection is important if you think you are at risk of having the infection, as it can lead to complications if left untreated.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
The majority of people with Chlamydia do not notice any symptoms
70% of women and 50% of men will be symptom-less, but the rest may experience:
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Vaginal discharge/ discharge from the penis
- A change to periods (heavier bleed than normal) or bleeding after sex/ between periods
- Stomach pains or Pelvic pain during/ after sex
- Pain in the testicles
- Pain or discharge from the anus
If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and cause some complications such as;
- Pelvic Inflammatory disease (infection and inflammation in the female reproductive organs, which is a known cause of reduced fertility)
- Epididymo-orchitis (pain and swelling of the testicles)
- Arthritis (pain and swelling of joints as a reaction to having the infection)
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can be passed on from person to person during unprotected sex (sex without the use of a condom) or from contact with infected genital fluids (vaginal fluid or semen). There doesn't have to be ejaculation or even penetration involved for the infection to spread and you can get Chlamydia from sharing sex toys that aren't washed or used without condoms.
It can also be passed on from an untreated mother to her baby during childbirth; which can lead to some complications in the new born.
Testing for chlamydia can be easily done by taking a urine sample or by having a vaginal swab. This doesn't sometimes need to involve an examination and can be done by the patient themselves should they wish.
Treatment of Chlamydia
You can reduce your chance of having the infection by using condoms during sex (vaginal, oral or anal sex) or the use of vaginal dams during female oral sex and contact between female genitals. Avoid sharing sex toys, but if you are going to; then to wash them in between use or use new condoms to cover them before sharing.
People who are diagnosed with chlamydia are usually prescribed a course of antibiotics; this maybe for one day or for seven days depending on the circumstances. It is also recommended that sexual partners are tested and treated for the infection to reduce the change of re-infection or spread to other people.
Ask your GP if you would like to know more about the infection or the tests involved.
Our doctors are available now to help you with chlamydia or any other medical condition which you would normally see your GP about. Book an appointment now and start feeling better right away.