Chlamydia

The common symptoms can include unusual discharge, pain when urinating, abdominal pain, or pain and swelling in the testicles. However, most people do not develop any obvious symptoms. This is why chlamydia can easily go unnoticed and untreated if you don’t test regularly.

Chlamydia is caused by bacteria that infect the genital tract, rectum, or throat. It is transmitted during unprotected sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Sharing sex toys without cleaning them properly can also spread the infection.

Once the bacteria enter the body, they can infect the lining of the genital tract or other areas of contact. Over time, untreated infection may cause inflammation and complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This is why early detection and treatment are important.

Yes, chlamydia is one of the most common STIs worldwide, especially among young adults. Many people don’t realise they have it because of the lack of symptoms. This makes it easy to spread without knowing.

In the UK, chlamydia is the most frequently reported STI. It is particularly common among people under 25, which is why routine screening is recommended for this age group. Public health services encourage regular testing to reduce the spread.

Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics that kill the bacteria causing the infection. The most common options include doxycycline or azithromycin, which are highly effective when taken correctly. Completing the full course and avoiding sex until cleared is essential.

If you are pregnant, doctors may prescribe antibiotics that are safe for both you and your baby. Doxycycline is not usually recommended in pregnancy, so alternatives such as azithromycin may be used instead. Always follow medical advice to ensure the safest treatment.

Yes, chlamydia is generally straightforward to cure with the right antibiotics. Most people clear the infection after completing a short course of treatment. However, re-infection is common, so partners should also be treated, and regular testing is important.

Chlamydia can remain in the body for months or even years if untreated. Over time, it can lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or long-term pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these risks.

Chlamydia can stay in the body without causing noticeable symptoms for a long period, sometimes years. This is known as being asymptomatic or dormant. Even without symptoms, the infection can still cause damage and be passed on to others.

You can order home testing kits that usually involve providing a urine sample or a swab. These are sent to a lab for analysis, and results are often available within a few days. Home testing offers a private and convenient way to check for chlamydia.

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems. In women, it may cause pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or complications during pregnancy. In men, it can cause testicular pain, swelling, and sometimes infertility.

No, chlamydia does not usually clear up without treatment. The infection may remain in the body and continue to cause damage over time. Antibiotic treatment is needed to fully clear the infection.

Yes, it is possible to catch chlamydia multiple times, even after successful treatment. Being cured does not provide immunity against future infections. Practising safe sex and regular testing helps reduce the risk of reinfection.