Chlamydia

In 70% of women and 50% of men, Chlamydia does not cause any symptoms at all. If symptoms occur, they usually develop 1-3 weeks after acquiring the infection.

Symptoms in Men

• Pain/discomfort on passing urine
• Discharge from the penis
• Can affect the testicles-causing pain and swelling.
• Can also cause prostatitis (infection of the prostate gland).

Symptoms in Women

• Pain on passing urine
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Bleeding in between periods
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Pain on intercourse
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

In women, untreated Chlamydia infection can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which may damage the fallopian tubes. This is a risk factor for ectopic pregnancies (where the pregnancy occurs outside the womb) or infertility.

As well as affecting the genital region, Chlamydia can also cause infection of the throat and rectum, which is particularly likely to occur after oral intercourse and anal intercourse respectively.

The test of choice is the NAAT test (Nucleic acid amplification test), as it is highly sensitive. This is performed by a urine sample in men (as long as the bladder has not been emptied for 1 hour) or a swab from the vagina in women. For individuals with rectal or throat symptoms or who have had anal or rectal exposure, a rectal swab or a throat swab should also be performed.

Treatment for chlamydia is available at select CityDoc clinics, and is treated with either a course or single dose of an oral antibiotic.

With Positive Chlamydia cases, no test of cure is required, a part from in the case of positive rectal chlamydia and pregnant clients. If a test of cure is carried out, it is recommended a minimum period of 3 weeks has elapsed.