Home >> Health >> Lovelife >> Chlamydia

What is it?

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection. It is the most common STI amongst young people. In fact, 1 in 10 of those under 25s tested, have it.

How do you catch it?

You can catch Chlamydia during unprotected sexual contact, including intercourse and oral sex. 

You can’t catch Chlamydia through kissing, hugging, toilet seats, towels or swimming pools.

How do I know if I have it?

You probably won’t know, as there are no signs or symptoms.
But if there are symptoms, they could be:
 
Girls 

• Increased vaginal discharge
• Pain during sex 
• Bleeding after sex

If left untreated, it could affect your chances of having a baby. 

Boys

• Discharge from penis
• Pain/burning sensation when peeing 
• Can also cause painful swelling of testicles if left untreated.

Can it be treated?

Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics.

Where can I get a test?

There is a
National Chlamydia Screening Programme – that offers screening to under 25s. The test is simple and painless. You can get it from lots of places – young peoples’ clinics, GP surgery, family planning clinics etc

You can also go online and get a free, confidential test sent to you in the post at www.cambstakeatest.com

How can I protect against it?

• Using condoms every time you have sex reduces the risk of getting or passing on an STI
• If you are sexually active make sure you have a Chlamydia test every year until you are 24.
  

 

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