Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection that can be treated and cured with antibiotics. Around 1:10 sexually active women and men between the ages of 16 + 25 who are tested, have Chlamydia.

Most women and men will not know if they have the infection as there are usually no symptoms. However Chlamydia can still cause damage.

What are the Risks?

In women, Chlamydia can cause complications such as pelvic infection, ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

In men, Chlamydia can cause pain, infection of the testicles and infertility.

Any Symptoms?

Symptoms can show up 1-3 weeks after coming into contact with Chlamydia, many months later or not until the infection has spread to other parts of the body. 70% of women and 50% men get no symptoms at all. If you do get symptoms you may notice:

• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain when passing urine or having sex
• Bleeding after sex or between periods
• Lower abdominal pain or painful testicles

How can you find out if you have Chlamydia?

Screening is confidential; we will not tell anyone you have taken the test. There is a simple and effective test to detect Chlamydia, for women it is a self taken swab from the lower vagina and men are asked to provide a urine sample.

You must provide us with two ways to contact you, to tell you your results.

Click here for local clinics or visit your GPs.

What if you have Chlamydia?

If you test positive we will contact you by your preferred method, treatment with antibiotics is given FREE. Sexual partners should also be screened and treated; they are likely to have the infection too.

Prevention

Using condoms every time you have sex can reduce the risk of getting or passing on Chlamydia and other Sexually Transmitted Infections. Having yearly Chlamydia screens or STI check-up prior to entering new relationships is recommended.

Contact Numbers

Bournemouth and Poole Chlamydia Screening Office, Monday - Friday 10.00 -16.00, Direct Line 0844 800 4846.

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