We test for chlamydia with gonorrhoea by urine PCR or by swab.
Most people who have chlamydia will not notice any symptoms. According to research, 50% of men and 70-80% of women will be asymptomatic when infected by chlamydia. In some cases, you may show symptoms only briefly, but even if the symptoms disappear you may still have the infection and still be able to pass it on to others. If you do have symptoms, they tend to develop 1-3 weeks following the initial infection, but may take longer to appear.
Despite the fact that cases often will not present with symptoms, chlamydia can become serious if it isn’t diagnosed and treated early on. The risk with chlamydia is that it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), epididymal-orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), and infertility. In rare cases, it can also cause reactive arthritis, and of course, there is always the danger of passing an undetected STI onto a partner.
If you have no symptoms and are testing for peace of mind, there is no consultation fee payable.
However, if you have any symptoms, please note that a consultation fee is payable of £85 with a specialist nurse or £175 with a GP.
Causes
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which is spread via the semen or vaginal fluids of infected men and women. You can get infected by:
- Having unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex with an infected person
- Sharing sex toys
- Your genitals coming into contact with your partner’s genitals (even if there is no penetration, orgasm or ejaculation)
What to do next
We have an experienced sexual health team who can help you get tested or treated for chlamydia quickly and accurately. Give us a call and come speak to one of our specialists today.
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02073231023Harley St Area
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02071010355City of London
FAQ
Testing for chlamydia is quick, painless, and simple. A sample of cells can be taken either by swabbing the genital area with a cotton bud, or by urinating into a container. In advance of your appointment, be sure to hold your urine for at least 2 hours. This will produce the most accurate results.
The test will be most accurate if you wait 2 weeks after you think you may have been infected. If you are noticing symptoms, or if your partner has already been diagnosed, it is best to get tested as soon as possible. Those under 25 are at higher risk of infection, and so testing is advised for this age group either once a year, or each time you have a new sexual partner.
We will be able to get your results to you within 24 hours or on the next working day.
