Chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK. One in ten young people between the ages of 15 to 25 years who are tested have it.
What are the symptoms?
Chlamydia is an infection that affects the sex organs. It often has no symptoms but can cause long term effects such as infertility (being unable to have children). If you do get symptoms you might notice:
unusual vaginal discharge;
pain when weeing or having sex;
bleeding after sex or between periods;
lower abdominal pain or painful testicles.
How could I get it?
Chlamydia is spread by unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
What can I do?
Even if you don’t have symptoms if you are under 25 years and have ever had sex, you can have a simple, free test to check for Chlamydia.
A test is simple, painless and confidential. The test for men involves providing a urine sample and for women, taking a vaginal swab (like a cotton wool bud). You will be asked to provide a mobile number, to which the results will be sent.
Can it be treated?
It is easily treated by antibiotics.
Can I prevent it?
To help prevent getting Chlamydia always use a condom.
Where can I get a test?
You are now able to order a test online and have it sent to your address. Visit www.whatsinyourpants.co.uk to order.
You are also able to have a test at any family planning or genito-urinary medical (GUM) clinic.
From 14 December 2008 a new service is being offered at Strood and Hundred of Hoo leisure centres where you are able to have a test. Running the second Sunday of each month:
10am to 12noon at Hundred of Hoo and
2 to 4pm at Strood.
Anyone is welcome.
Further information can be found on these websites: