Sexual Health

A recent report by the Health Protection Agency has shown that the number of cases of sexually transmitted diseases in the UK is still rising. Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection, particularly affecting younger people under the age of 25.

Chlamydia is an infection caused by a bacterium (germ) called Chlamydia trachomatis. In women, chlamydial infection usually affects the cervix and uterus (the womb). In men, it usually affects the urethra in the penis.

The majority of people have no symptoms at all and therefore may spread the condition to sexual partners before eventually getting diagnosed themselves. If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to pelvic pain and even permanent infertility.

It makes sense for any sexually active young person, boy or girl, to get tested for Chlamydia regularly. Treatment is a short course of antibiotics.

You should not feel anxious or embarrassed about having a test. It is reliable and very simply and painlessly administered via a urine sample. It can even be done by post from your own home.

Your sexual health is important. If you or anyone you know is at risk of Chlamydia, I suggest you get tested, either via your local GUM clinic, your NHS GP, or for postal tests, contact www.southdownsprivatehealthcare.co.uk.

The views expressed in this blog are those of Dr Abu-Talib Chinwala BM MRCGP and not of any organisation he works for