The Little Surgery: Leaflets

Chlamydia

What is Chlamydia? | Symptoms | Tests | Treatment

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What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is the commonest sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK. It is on the increase, especially among people under 25 years of age.

You may be at risk if you have ever had sex without a condom, even if you feel perfectly healthy.

Chlamydia is caused by a bacteria that can stay hidden for many years, in either men or women. Although it does not make you feel ill, the long term effects can be serious.

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What are the symptoms?

There are no immediate symtoms. However, Chlamydia can damage the pelvic organs and lead to:

• ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy developing outside the womb),
• infertility in women,
• and sometimes infertility in men.

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How can I get tested?

Chalmydia testing can be done at the Surgery. Our nurse can do this for you. In fact, we offer Chlamydia testing to all young women who come for their cervical screening (smear) tests.

Or, if you prefer, you can visit your local Sexual Health clinic. This is based at Peterborough District Hospital and you can make an appointment by telephoning the clinic: (01733) 875077

It takes 10-14 days for the test results to arrive.

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What is the treatment?

The good news is that the the treatment for Chlamydia is very simple and you can be completely cured.

Your doctor will give you a prescription for a short course of antibiotics. You may be asked to return for a follow-up test.

Please remember to ask your partner to come for testing and treatment. If your partner is not treated, you will catch the infection again.

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