Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most common and fastest growing sexually transmitted infection; unfortunately it also rarely presents symptoms. Up to one in ten young people who are sexually active are believed to be infected.

The infection is caused by bacteria which are found in vaginal fluids and semen. It is usually transmitted through vaginal, anal and oral sex or by sharing sex toys. As well as being found in the genital area and rectum, it can also more rarely live in the throat or eyes.

While symptoms are infrequent or so slight as not to be noticed, some of the indicators of Chlamydia are

Women

• Bleeding between periods or during/after sex
• Pain during intercourse or when urinating
• Lower abdominal pain
• Unusual vaginal discharge

Men

• Discharge from the tip of the penis
• Painful testicles or pain when urinating

You can be tested for Chlamydia at The STI Clinic and treatment is free of charge if you test positive.

Get tested

If left untreated, Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease in women. This can result in scarring or damage of the fallopian tubes and this can lead to chronic pelvic pain, increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. In men it can cause painful infections in the testicles and reduced fertility. For both sexes, Chlamydia can have serious implications for fertility. More rarely patients can develop inflammation of the joints.

However, treating Chlamydia is very simple and the infection should clear up with a short course of antibiotics.

If you have already tested positive for Chlamydia or a partner has tested positive then you can get treated by The Online Clinic by completing a free consultation form.

Reviewed by: Dr Loraine Haslam MBBS, DRCOG, DFSRH, LoC SDI, LoC IUT, MRCGP
GMC registration number: 4524038
Date: 30 June 2024
Next review: 29 June 2026
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