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Chlamydia Testing
>> Abortion >> Chlamydia Testing >> Female Sterilisation >> Vasectomy	Chlamydia is one of the most commonly occurring bacterial sexually transmitted infections in this country. It is a growing problem in the UK; reports covering 1996 – 2002 show that the infection rate has almost doubled. In 2000, over 39,000 cases were diagnosed amongst 16-24 year olds in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Carriers of the infection are often unaware that they have it because it presents no symptoms until it’s too late. It mainly affects the genitals of both men and women, but it can attack the eyes, throat and rectum as well. If left untreated in women, chlamydia can: cause ectopic pregnancy early miscarriage or premature birth long-term pelvic pain blocked fallopian tubes If left untreated in men, chlamydia can: cause painful inflammation of the testicles which can lead to infertility problems inflammation of the joints, urethra and eyes It is passed from one person to another through sexual intercourse. Obviously, the more partners you have, the more likely the risk of exposing yourself to infection. However, you only need to be exposed to one carrier and you can catch it. Women under the age of 25 who are sexually active have a 1 in 10 chance of catching chlamydia The risk is even higher if a woman is under 20 and has had unprotected sex If you are over 25 and have had 2 partners within a year (or recently changed partner), your risk is also increased For men, the highest risk group is in the 20 – 30 year old age band Symptoms Many people have such mild symptoms that they really don’t notice anything different at all. Around 70% of women and 50% of men who have the infection show no symptoms at all. For example, symptoms in women can be bleeding between periods low abdominal pain pain during sex or bleeding after sex pain when passing urine, an unusual vaginal discharge Men can experience a watery, cloudy discharge from the tip of their penis pain when passing urine testicular pain or swelling Treatment Chlamydia can be successfully treated with antibiotics. Both/all partners need to take antibiotics to kill off the infection. Once it has been successfully treated, chlamydia won’t come back unless you pick up a new infection. Tests New tests have been developed that can be done on swabs which you do yourself at the Clinic or urine tests. Previously, swabs were taken by the nurses. Blood tests and cervical smear tests will not pick up chlamydia.

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