What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a germ that is spread through having sex without a condom with an infected person. It is considered a sexually transmissible infection (STI).

Symptoms

Many people do not experience symptoms from chlamydia, however it may still be doing damage to your body. Symptoms include:

• Discharge from the penis or vagina that is not normal
• Pain urinating
• Pain in genital areas

Why you need to see a doctor if you have been at risk of Chlamydia

Chlamydia can permanently damage your reproductive system, with many bad outcomes including causing pelvic inflammatory disease in women and potentially preventing you from having children.

Prevention

Chlamydia can be in male and female sexual fluid.  Using condoms or dams and lubricant every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex will reduce your risk of getting chlamydia.

Testing

If you have had sex without a condom, you may be at risk of chlamydia or other STIs.  You should go to a doctor to be tested.  The doctor may take a urine sample or use a cotton swab to sample an area which may be affected.

Treatment

Chlamydia can be cured with a single dose or short course of antibiotics.

For more information

Talk to your doctor or local health clinic.