Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed STI in England, with the number of confirmed cases increasing. Amongst 16-25 year olds the infection rate is roughly 1 in 10. The disease is difficult to detect without testing as many people do not have any symptoms. Without being tested and being unaware it can mean it is often left untreated and can lead onto health problems in the future.
Most symptoms stay undetected but for women some of you may notice-
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A change in vaginal discharge
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Pain when passing urine
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Pain and/or bleeding during sex
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Bleeding between periods of heavier bleeding
Men are more likely to notice the symptoms of Chlamydia
In some rare cases Chlamydia can affect other areas than you genitals in both men and women, such as the eyes, throat and rectum. In the eyes Chlamydia can cause pain, swelling, irritation and discharge. Infection in the throat is very rare and does not usually cause any symptoms. Also if the infection is in the rectum it can cause discomfort and discharge.
If remained undiagnosed this can lead to serious health complications, including infertility. Chlamydia can be easily diagnosed through a urine sample and treated with a course of antibiotics.
Getting tested
Free Chlamydia testing kits from the clinic on Thursdays 10-12 & 1-3 in the Welfare & Education Centre and in the Students’ Union toilets on Thursdays
Chlamydia testing kits are widely available across the city and from most GP’s
For more information on getting tested follow this
link