Overview
Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the UK. It is spread through unprotected sex (without a condom) and is especially common among sexually active teenagers and young adults.
In England, it’s recommended that sexually active women under 25 take a chlamydia test annually, as well as when engaging with new or casual partners. Men under 25 who are sexually active should also be tested annually if they do not consistently use condoms with new or casual partners.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
Most people with chlamydia do not show symptoms and may be unaware they have the infection. If symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Pain during urination
- Unusual discharge from the vagina, penis, or rectum
- In women: abdominal pain, bleeding after sex, or between periods
- In men: pain and swelling in the testicles
If you believe you’re at risk or experience any of these symptoms, visit your GP, a community contraceptive service, or a local genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic to get tested.
“Get tested for peace of mind.”
How Chlamydia Spreads
Chlamydia is caused by bacteria spread through sex or contact with infected genital fluids. It can be contracted through:
- Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex
- Sharing unwashed sex toys or not covering them with a new condom per use
- Genital contact with a partner’s genitals, even without penetration
- Contact with infected fluids in the eye
Chlamydia can also be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her baby. However, it is not spread through casual contact, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing baths, towels, swimming pools, or toilet seats.
“Early diagnosis is key—book your test.”
Is Chlamydia Serious?
Chlamydia can typically be treated with a brief course of antibiotics. However, if left untreated, it may spread and lead to long-term health complications, particularly for women. In women, untreated chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.
For men, the infection may spread to the testicles and epididymis, causing pain and swelling—a condition called epididymitis or epididymo-orchitis. Both men and women may develop reactive arthritis.
This highlights the importance of early testing and treatment if chlamydia is suspected.
Getting Tested for Chlamydia
Chlamydia testing involves either a urine or swab test, and a physical examination is not always necessary. You can access free, confidential testing at:
- Sexual health clinics
- Genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics
- GP surgeries
Women under 25 in England may also be offered testing through the National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP) at pharmacies or GP visits. Consider taking the test if offered.
Home testing kits are available as well, providing a convenient option.
“Order a home test kit for privacy and convenience.”
How Chlamydia is Treated
Chlamydia is typically treated with antibiotics, such as:
- Doxycycline: Taken daily for one week. Avoid sexual activity, including oral sex, until you and your partner complete treatment.
- Azithromycin: Taken once daily for three days. Refrain from sex for seven days post-treatment.
It’s crucial that your current and recent sexual partners are tested and treated to prevent further spread. Under-25s who test positive should be offered another test 3 to 6 months later due to a higher risk of re-infection.
Sexual health clinics can assist with partner notification while ensuring your confidentiality.
Preventing Chlamydia
Anyone who is sexually active can contract chlamydia, with higher risks associated with new partners or not using condoms. Preventative measures include:
- Using a condom during vaginal, anal, and oral sex
- Using condoms to cover the penis or a dam for the female genitals during oral sex or genital rubbing
- Avoiding sharing of sex toys or ensuring they are washed and covered with a new condom between uses
Symptoms of Chlamydia by Gender
In Women: Around 70% of women do not experience symptoms. When symptoms appear, they may include:
- Pain during urination
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain in the abdomen or pelvis
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding after intercourse or between periods
Untreated, it may spread to the womb, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to ectopic pregnancies or infertility.
In Men: Approximately 50% of men do not exhibit symptoms. When present, symptoms may include:
- Pain during urination
- Discharge from the penis
- Burning or itching in the urethra
- Pain in the testicles
Untreated, the infection can cause inflammation in the epididymis and testicles, potentially impacting fertility.
“Know your status—get tested.”
Chlamydia in the Rectum, Throat, or Eyes
Chlamydia can infect various areas:
- Rectum: Can cause discomfort and discharge if infected through anal sex
- Throat: Rarely causes symptoms if contracted via oral sex
- Eyes: Infection may cause redness, pain, and discharge if infected fluids enter the eye
Seek medical advice if any of these symptoms arise.
Diagnosis: What Does the Chlamydia Test Involve?
Tests are simple, painless, and generally reliable. Samples may be collected through:
- A swab (inside the vagina or anus)
- A urine sample (for men or women)
Results typically arrive within 7 to 10 days. Treatment may begin before results if symptoms or exposure suggest a high probability of infection.
Complications of Untreated Chlamydia
If not treated, chlamydia can lead to severe health complications:
- For Women: PID, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies
- For Men: Testicular pain and inflammation affecting fertility
Pregnancy Risks: Untreated chlamydia may pass to the baby, potentially causing eye infections or pneumonia.
Reactive Arthritis: A potential complication for both men and women, resulting in joint, eye, or urinary inflammation.
“Avoid complications—seek treatment early.”
