Disclaimer:
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalised diagnosis, treatment, or advice regarding sexually transmitted infections.
Q1: What is chlamydia?
A: Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. It is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.
Chlamydia primarily affects the genitals, but it can also infect the throat, rectum, and eyes. Many people do not experience any symptoms, which is why chlamydia is often called a “silent infection.” Even without symptoms, it can still be transmitted to sexual partners and can cause serious long-term health problems if untreated.
Q2: How do people get chlamydia?
A: Chlamydia spreads through direct sexual contact. You can get it from:
- Vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom
- Sharing sex toys that are not properly cleaned or covered with a new condom
- From mother to baby during childbirth, which can lead to eye or lung infection in the newborn
It cannot be caught through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, sharing food, toilets, or swimming pools.
Q3: Who is most at risk?
Chlamydia can affect anyone who is sexually active, but the risk is higher if you:
- Are under 30 years old
- Have multiple or new sexual partners
- Do not use condoms consistently
- Have a history of other STIs
- Have a partner who has not been tested or treated
Q4: What are the symptoms of chlamydia?
Most people have no noticeable symptoms, which is why regular testing is important. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
In women:
- Unusual vaginal discharge (yellow, cloudy, or watery)
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Pain during sexual intercourse
In men:
- Discharge from the penis (clear, white, or cloudy)
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Swelling or discomfort in one or both testicles
- Itching or irritation at the tip of the penis
In both genders:
- Rectal pain, bleeding, or discharge (if rectal infection)
- Sore throat (if oral infection occurs, often mild or unnoticed)
Q5: How is chlamydia diagnosed?
Diagnosis is straightforward and involves a simple test:
- Women: vaginal swab (self-collected or by a clinician)
- Men: first-catch urine sample or urethral swab
- Anal or throat infections: swabs from the affected area
Results are usually available within a few days. Early testing is important even if you feel well, especially if you are at higher risk.
Q6: How is chlamydia treated?
Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics. Common treatment includes:
- Oral doxycycline for 7 days, or a single-dose alternative if recommended by a GP
- Avoid sexual contact for 7 days after starting treatment to prevent spreading the infection
- All recent sexual partners should be tested and treated as well
It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve quickly.
Q7: Do I need a follow-up test?
Yes. Re-testing is recommended about 3 months after treatment because re-infection is common. Pregnant women may require a test-of-cure 4 weeks after treatment to confirm the infection has cleared, which helps prevent complications for the baby.
Q8: What happens if chlamydia is not treated?
Untreated chlamydia can lead to serious complications:
In women:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pelvic pain
- Damage to the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
- Potential complications during pregnancy
In men:
- Infection of the testicles (epididymo-orchitis)
- Swelling or pain in the scrotum
- Fertility problems (less common)
In both genders:
- Persistent infection that can be passed to partners
- Increased susceptibility to HIV infection
Pregnancy complications:
- Premature birth
- Eye or lung infections in the newborn
Q9: How can chlamydia be prevented?
You can reduce your risk by:
- Using condoms every time you have sex
- Getting tested regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners
- Ensuring sexual partners are tested and treated if necessary
- Avoiding sharing unwashed sex toys, or using a new condom for each partner
- Maintaining regular STI check-ups (yearly or more often if higher risk)
Good communication with partners about sexual health and testing is key to prevention.
Q10: Should I tell my partner?
Yes. Sexual partners from the past 6 months should be informed so they can be tested and treated. Many clinics offer confidential partner notification services to protect privacy and prevent reinfection.
