What are the features of chlamydia?

Answer 1

• Frequently asymptomatic (no symptoms)

• Vaginal or penile discharge

• Burning during urination

• Women may experience lower abdominal pain, pain during intercourse and irregular bleeding between periods

• Men may experience swelling or pain in the testicles

The National Chlamydia Screening Programme in England is being extended to ensure all sexually active women and men under 25 can access chlamydia testing - this includes testing in other settings such as youth clubs and colleges. You can also buy home chlamydia testing kits, but the accuracy of these tests varies so it's important to get good advice from a pharmacist.

Women having intrauterine contraception (IUD or IUS) fitted, or having an abortion, will be offered a chlamydia test.

The test is simple and painless. Either a urine test is done or a swab (like a cotton bud) is used to take a sample of cells from the vagina or urethra. If you've had anal or oral sex, a swab will be taken from the rectum or throat. Your eyes will be tested if you have symptoms of conjunctivitis (discharge from the eye).