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Chlamydia is the fastest increasing Sexually Transmitted Infection in the UK with over 109,000 cases notified in 2005. The UK Health Protection Agency identifies young people under the age of 25 as being most at risk.
Chlamydia though is a disease which may affect any age group, male or female and may lie dormant for many years. It is especially important in young people because it may cause damage to the reproductive system and may make both males and females infertile.
What is Chlamydia?
It is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria, Chlamydia Trachomatis.
How can I get Chlamydia?
Any sexual activity with someone who has Chlamydia may result in you developing it. It can live in the genital tract of both males and females, so it may live in the testes, penis and semen of males and in the vagina of females. It can also live in the throat and the rectum, so sex involving any of these sites may spread Chlamydia.
Unprotected penetrative sex (sex without a condom) may result in infection.
Oral sex without a condom or a dental dam may also result in infection.
Getting semen in your eye may also result in infection.
How do I know if I've got Chlamydia?
You may not. Upwards of 50% of the population who do have Chlamydia are unaware they have it.
Some people may get a painful or burning sensation when they pass urine; women may get bleeding between periods, abdominal pain and a discharge. Men may get a discharge.
The best way forward is to be vigilant and to get yourself checked when you have unprotected sex with a new partner. If you're having sex outside your usual relationship, make sure you protect your regular partner by getting tested before you have sex again.
Chlamydia Testing
Testing for Chlamydia at Freedomhealth is straightforward and painless. Modern Chlamydia tests rely on taking a urine sample to test for penile or vaginal Chlamydia or painless swabs from the throat or anus. Results are back within 48 hours.
Chlamydia Clinics and Treatments
Treatment is easy once detected, with a course of antibiotics which will cure the infection.
