Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can infect the reproductive organs in girls and guys. Less commonly, it can infect the throat and anus.
How is it passed on?
- Unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex
- Sharing sex toys
Symptoms
Usually no symptoms, but may include:
- unusual discharge (fluid) from the penis, vagina or anus
- pain during sex
- pain when peeing
- girls may notice bleeding in between periods
- lower abdominal pain
Chlamydia is the most common STI among young people in Australia.
How is it tested?
- Urine test (pee in a cup) and/or
- Swab sample from the vagina, anus or throat
Chlamydia is known as the ‘silent infection’ as most people have no signs or symptoms.
How is it treated?
- A single dose of antibiotic tablets.
- Your sexual partner/s will need to be tested and treated to avoid re-infecting each other.
- Avoid having sex for seven days after you have both been treated to prevent passing the infection onto your partner/s or becoming infected again yourself.
- A follow-up test in three months’ time to make sure you haven’t got the infection again.
How can I prevent getting it?
- Use a condom during vaginal, anal or oral sex and when sharing sex toys.
