The most common sexually-transmitted infection (STI) in the UK is chlamydia, a bacterial infection usually spread through unprotected sex. A National Chlamydia Screening Programme in England offers a free test to the under 25s.
The infection is treated with antibiotics but as around three-quarters of those who have chlamydia don’t realise they have the infection and show no symptoms, many cases go untreated.
Chlamydia affects both men and women and symptoms can appear quickly or take months to become visible. In women, the symptoms include an unusual vaginal discharge, pain when peeing, pain during sex and bleeding after sex. Some women might also notice that they bleed between their periods or have heavier periods. In men, typical symptoms include a discharge from the penis, swelling in the testicles and pain when having a pee.
Testing for chlamydia is done via a urine sample or women can provide a vaginal swab. Tests can be done confidentially and free of charge of sexual health clinics, community contraceptive clinics and genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics. Your visit will remain completely private and the clinic won’t pass your results on to your GP unless you give your permission. You don’t have to give your own name but you do have to give the correct contact details so you can get your test results.
The National Chlamydia Screening Programme offers free testing at a variety of places, such as colleges, Brook clinics, clubs and at some pharmacies.
Antibiotics will clear up the infection quickly, particularly after an early diagnosis. If you leave it longer to get tested, the infection can cause long-term health problems. Untreated Chlamydia in women may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can affect future fertility. Men with untreated chlamydia can get an infection in the testicles that might reduce their fertility,
Using a condom can protect you against all STIs including chlamydia and will also protect you against unplanned pregnancy.
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