Chlamydia

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacteria that can infect the genitals, urethra and rectum of men and women, but may also affect the throat and eyes.

How is it passed on?

It is passed on by unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex, when sharing sex toys, and occasionally touching the genitals then the eyes, or by a mother to her baby at birth

Signs and symptoms

About 50% of men and 70% of women with Chlamydia show no symptoms at all. Often symptoms are very mild and go unnoticed. 

Typical signs include: 

• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
• Pain when passing urine
• Bleeding between periods
• Testicular pain or swelling
• Pain during sex
• Low abdominal pain

Tests and treatment

• Usually a swab is taken from the vagina or tip of the penis and a sample of urine is taken. The swab might feel a bit uncomfortable but is quick and should not be painful.
• Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics. To avoid re-infection, sexual partners should also be treated.

If untreated, chlamydia can spread to other reproductive organs causing serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

Long Term Effects

Females: pelvic inflammatory disease, problems having children, chronic pain around the pelvic area (just underneath the belly-button). 

Males: possible infection in the testicles.