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Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It often causes no symptoms. Testing provides clarity and treatment reduces the chance of complications and further spread.

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  • Chlamydia is a bacterial STI that often causes no symptoms.
  • The infection may affect the cervix, urethra, rectum and sometimes the throat or eyes.
  • It mainly spreads through vaginal or anal sex without a correctly used condom; shared sex toys may also transmit bacteria.
  • A urine test or swab may detect infection. The site tested depends on sexual contact.
  • Suitable antibiotic treatment usually cures the infection, but does not protect against reinfection.
  • Untreated chlamydia may cause pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pain, epididymitis and reduced fertility.
  • Partner notification, temporarily avoiding sex and retesting when advised are parts of good treatment.
  • There is no need for shame. A test is ordinary healthcare and helps you and your partners.

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Further reading

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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)An STI is an infection mainly passed on through sexual contact. Many STIs cause no symptoms. Testing, appropriate treatment, partner notification and safer sex prevent complications and further transmission.
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TrichomoniasisTrichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Many people notice nothing. Symptoms may include discharge, odour, itching, pain when urinating or irritation. Treating both you and your sexual partners often prevents reinfection.
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GonorrhoeaGonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect the urethra, vagina or cervix, anus, throat and sometimes the eyes. Many people have no symptoms but can still pass on the bacteria. Get tested at the relevant sites, have sexual partners seek advice and use only treatment prescribed by a doctor, because resistance is a worldwide problem.