Chlamydia is a common type of sexually transmitted infection

(STI) that is spread through bodily fluids (semen and vaginal fluids)

during sexual contact. Chlamydia often has mild or no symptoms,

so it’s important to get tested regularly as untreated chlamydia

can lead to serious complications, especially in women.

Long term complications of chlamydia can include

pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which can increase

the chance of ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

You can get a free, confidential chlamydia test at your GP

or sexual health clinic, or alternatively, order a test kit online

and do the test yourself at home. The test for chlamydia

involves taking a sample of your urine or a swab from your genitals.

The first line of treatment for chlamydia is normally

a 7 day course of doxycycline. Doxycycline works by

stopping the bacteria that cause chlamydia from

functioning and reproducing inside your body.

In order to survive and reproduce, bacteria have to

produce certain proteins. Doxycycline enters

bacteria cells and blocks the production of these proteins.

In certain cases, your doctor may recommend another

treatment option such as azithromycin to treat

your chlamydia. Talk to your GP or healthcare provider about which treatment is best for you.