What Is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial STI caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex and can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth.

According to NHS guidance, it is one of the most common infections in sexually active young adults, especially those under 25.

Symptoms of Chlamydia

Most people with chlamydia do not experience symptoms, which makes regular testing very important.

Symptoms in Women

• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Lower abdominal pain

Symptoms in Men

• Discharge from the penis
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Testicular pain or swelling

Other Possible Symptoms

• Rectal pain, discharge or bleeding
• Sore throat after oral exposure
• Eye irritation or discharge

Complications of Untreated Chlamydia

If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious long-term health problems.

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Infertility in women and men
• Ectopic pregnancy risk
• Epididymitis (painful testicular infection)
• Reactive arthritis
• Pregnancy complications and neonatal infections

Chlamydia Testing

Testing is quick, simple, and painless. It usually involves a urine sample or swab.

• Pharmacies (including Wigan Road Pharmacy)
• GP surgeries
• Sexual health clinics (GUM clinics)
• Home testing kits

NHS recommends testing if you have new partners, unprotected sex, or symptoms.

How Is Chlamydia Treated?

Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics, usually very effectively.

• Single-dose antibiotic OR 7–14 day course
• Complete full treatment course
• Avoid sexual contact during treatment
• Partner treatment is essential

Most people are fully cured after completing treatment correctly.

Common Myths About Chlamydia

• You cannot catch chlamydia from toilet seats or swimming pools
• Symptoms may not appear even if infected
• Previous infection does not give immunity
• Chlamydia does NOT go away without antibiotics

How to Prevent Chlamydia

• Use condoms during all sexual activity
• Use protection for oral sex
• Avoid sharing sex toys
• Get regular STI screenings

Partner Notification

If diagnosed, sexual partners must be informed and tested. This prevents reinfection and protects long-term health.

Our pharmacy team can provide confidential advice on partner notification.

Our Chlamydia Treatment Service

• Private consultation with pharmacist
• Confidential assessment
• Antibiotic treatment where appropriate
• Partner advice and support
• Referral if further care is needed

When to Seek Medical Advice

• Symptoms worsen or persist
• Severe pelvic or testicular pain
• Pregnancy concerns
• Repeated infections

Why Choose Wigan Road Pharmacy?

• 100% confidential service
• No GP appointment needed
• Fast access to treatment
• Trained sexual health pharmacists
• Private consultation rooms
• NHS-aligned care standards