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Chlamydia Kōtureture
Chlamydia is a common bacterial infection passed on by having sex. It is easy to catch and easy to treat. You may not have any symptoms so if you are sexually active, it is a good idea to get tested.
How you get chlamydia
Chlamydia is passed on during oral, vaginal or anal sexual contact, or sharing of sex toys. Penetration (full sex) does not need to happen to spread the infection. It can also be passed from a mother to their pēpi during childbirth.
Symptoms of chlamydia
Many people with chlamydia do not have any symptoms.
If you have symptoms you may have:
- vaginal discharge
- pain when you wee
- pain during sex
- unusual vaginal bleeding
- pain in your lower tummy (abdominal)
- a discharge from your penis
- pain in your testicles.
If left untreated, chlamydia can cause more serious problems including infertility (not being able to have babies).
Diagnosing chlamydia
You can be tested for chlamydia with a simple swab or urine test. You may be able to take the swab yourself.
Even if you feel embarrassed, it is better to get a simple check than to have untreated chlamydia.
Treating chlamydia
Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. Your sexual partner will need to be treated at the same time.
You should avoid sex or use condoms until 7 days after you and your partner have been treated.
Telling your sexual partner
If you have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is important that all of your sexual partners from the last few months are told. They will need to get tested and treated.
You may have caught an STI from an earlier partner but did not know as there were no symptoms at the time.
Some people feel embarrassed, scared or angry when they or their partner have an STI. This is common and normal. Do not let these feelings stop you from getting medical help or telling your partner.
If you need help telling your partner or partners, talk to your healthcare provider, sexual health clinic or school clinic.
Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoaexternal link
Find your local sexual health clinic — Just the Factsexternal link
How to talk to your partner about STIs — Just the Factsexternal link
Preventing chlamydia
Using a condom every time you have sex is the best way to protect yourself from getting or passing on chlamydia.