Chlamydia
What is chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a germ which is good at causing genital infections in men and women. Women who catch it can develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which can cause them to become infertile (unable to have children). Because of this, it's really important to get treatment for Chlamydia straight away. You might not want kids right now but you might in years to come. Also, it is worth remembering that chlamydia is easily cured with antibiotics.
How do you catch it?
You can catch the chlamydia germ by having unprotected anal, oral or vaginal sex with an infected partner.
What are the symptoms?
Some people don't ever suffer symptoms from chlamydia so quite often it's difficult to know if you have it. If you or your present partner have had more than one partner before you got together and condoms were not used you could be at risk of catching chlamydia. In fact 1 in 10 sexually active young people in Fife have the infection the majority without symptoms. There are a few symptoms to look out for however.
- Needing the toilet constantly and when you go, there is a burning sensation or discomfort.
- A cloudy fluid oozing from the tip of the penis. This usually happens first thing in the morning.
- Unusual discharge from the vagina or the urethra.
How can I protect myself?
Condoms will give you the best protection from catching chlamydia.
Because some people don't develop any clear symptoms, many people carrying chlamydia don't even know they have it. That's why it's best not to take any gambles and make sure you're definitely protected by always using a condom. If you have had sex with more than one partner without using a condom it may be advisable for you to get a Chamydia test done. All it involves is giving a urine sample (peeing into a bottle) and arranging how you will contact the health worker to get the results