1 in 10 of us have chlamydia and we don’t even realise it

Government statistics say that 1in 10 of us has chlamydia and we don’t know about it. The actual figure is probably closer to 17%!

Chlamydia is spread through unprotected sex. You only need to have unprotected sex with one person, just once, to catch it.

Chlamydia is most common amongst young women between the ages of 16 and 25, that are sexually active.
The risk is even greater if you are over 25 and have had more than one partner within a year.

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease or damage to the fallopian tubes, ultimately leading to infertility. In men it can cause painful swelling of the testicles or joint inflammation.

About 70% of women and 50% of men have no symptoms at all. Women may have symptoms similar to cystitis, a change in their discharge or mild lower abdominal pain. Men may have a discharge from the penis and a mild irritation at the end of the penis, which goes away after about three days.

It is very difficult, without a chlamydia test to know whether or not you have chlamydia.


A simple chlamydia home test can detect chlamydia, which can then be easily treated with a course of antibiotics. 95% of people with chlamydia are cured with only one course of antibiotics.

If you have ever had unprotected sex, even just once, you should take a chlamydia home test or go to your GP or local GUM clinic for a test.


How to avoid sexually transmitted diseases (STIs)

1. Before you have sex, talk to your partner about how to protect yourselves.
2. A male or female condom can provide protection from most STIs if used correctly every time you have sex.
3. Become familiar with how to use condoms and have a supply ready.
4. Seek advice straight away if you think you've been at risk.

Click here if you would like to find out more about the chlamydia home tests.