Chlamydia is a curable sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacteria (a type of germ) called Chlamydia trachomatis.

It is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK.

Chlamydia can thrive in various parts of the body including penis, vagina, anus (arse), throat and eyes.

Chlamydia can be easily passed from one person to another during oral, anal or vaginal sex or other unprotected contact with any of these areas.

It can also be spread by sex toys if, they are not washed or covered by a new condom each time they are used.

It is recommended to use condoms or femidoms when having anal or vaginal sex and condoms or dams for oral sex, and rimming.

Many people who are infected with chlamydia will not notice anything wrong, but the following symptoms may be noticed:

• A burning or painful sensation when weeing.
• A clear white/cloudy or watery discharge (liquid) from the penis or vagina.
• Pain, discharge or bleeding from the anus (arse).
• Pain or heavy feeling in the balls.
• Bleeding between periods and/or heavier periods.

Testing for chlamydia is done by taking a urine sample and swabs from the throat, genitals and anus (arse).

You can get tested for chlamydia (and other STI’s) 7 days a week with our sexual health services at Birmingham LGBT.

Call us on 0121 643 0821

All of our services are free and confidential

Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics – usually a course of tablets.

If you are treated for chlamydia, we strongly suggest that your sexual partner(s) also gets tested and treated before you have sex again.

We are here to support you, not to judge you.