Chlamydia

What is Chalmydia?

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium (a microscopic organism) that lives as a parasite inside human cells. Approximately 80% of women and 50% of men show no symptoms of chlamydia after infection. When left untreated, Chlamydia can permanently damage the sexual organs leading to infertility in women and in men. Chlamydia in women can infect the cervix and urinary tract and can cause pelvic inflammatory disease when it reaches the fallopian tubes. In men chlamydia can infect the urinary tract causing swelling or inflammation of the testicles. Gone untreated, Chlamydia can be very harmful so it is important to get an STD test regularly, which includes a Chlamydia test.

There are several chlamydia tests available: Better2Know uses a CPA accredited laboratory for your STD test, so you can be assured that your STD testing results are accurate.

How is Chlamydia treated?

Chlamydia is curable and can be treated with a course of antibiotics. You can receive a prescription at any of the Better2Know clinics. If left untreated, women may develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). In addition, Chlamydia in pregnant women can lead to increased risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery and potentially fatal tubal (ectopic) pregnancy. In men, Chlamydia may also reduce fertility. If the baby is exposed during delivery, he or she could suffer from eye infections or pneumonia.

Testing for Chlamydia

You can be tested for Chlamydia at any of our 60 STD testing clinics, or with our home Chlamydia STD testing kits. Chlamydia is part of our full screen and peace of mind screen, or can be booked on its own.