Chlamydia is caused by the Chlamydia Trachomatis bacteria, which can infect the cervix, urethra, rectum, throat and sometimes the eyes.
It is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases affecting both men and women. However, because of the lack of symptoms, it remains undiagnosed in many cases.
Current figures show that around 1 in eight men and 1 in 10 women are infected. If it remains untreated it can cause problems with fertility and pregnancy complications such as pre term birth and stillbirth and women are at higher risk of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and passing on the infection to their child during childbirth.
Risks
- Unprotected penetrative sex( vaginal/anal or oral)
- Sharing sex toys
- Sperm or vaginal fluid in your eye
Symptoms
Men
- No symptoms in as many as 50% (asymptomatic)
- Dysuria (painful urination)
- Penile discharge
- Itching/tingling in penis
- Rectal itching or discharge
- Throat infections usually have no symptoms
Women
- 70% asymptomatic
- Dysuria
- Change in vaginal discharge
- Lower abdominal pain
- Contact bleeding/intermenstrual bleeding
- Rectal itching or discharge
Diagnosis
It can take up to two weeks for the bacteria to be detected with current tests ( window period) so we advise waiting at least 10-14 days post contact, unless of course you develop symptoms in which case you should get tested asap. We can test for Chlamydia with a urine sample ( men, or women who would prefer not to have swabs) , or swabs from the vagina, rectum or throat. For urine testing we ask that you do not urinate for at least an hour before testing. It is important that you test each site that might have been exposed, for instance, if you perform oral sex then it is advisable to also do a throat swab, as a negative urine test for chlamydia doesn’t rule out infection at a different site. I can now guarantee same day results for chlamydia as long as you are seen before 12pm.
Treatment
Chlamydia is currently easily treated with antibiotics. Guidelines recommend that sexual partners are tested and treated, to avoid getting reinfected and you should abstain from sex for a week.
I have over 14 years experience providing sexual health screening and I offer a completely confidential, professional, non judgemental service from start to end. If you are not sure if you have been at risk, then I offer a normal consultation to discuss the possible risks and whether screening would be appropriate. We discuss and agree all costs beforehand so you know exactly where you stand and I will always provide you with clear and accurate advice based on current British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH )guidelines.
