Chlamydia test & treat
Understanding chlamydia
Chlamydia is a widespread sexually transmitted infection (STI) resulting from the chlamydia trachomatis bacterium. It can affect individuals of any gender, though the signs of infection may vary between women and men. A significant number of those infected may not experience noticeable symptoms, although the infection remains contagious and potentially harmful to their health, as well as to their sexual partners.
In women, chlamydia primarily targets the cervix and the uterus, while in men, it commonly affects the urethra. Additionally, chlamydia can lead to infections in other areas such as the throat, the eyes, and the rectum. The most common way people contract chlamydia is through vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
Prevalence of chlamydia
Chlamydia ranks among the most frequently diagnosed STIs in the United Kingdom, particularly affecting younger adults. Approximately 6 in 10 reported cases involve individuals under the age of 25. In 2018 alone, roughly 104,000 men and 130,000 women tested positive for the infection.
Symptoms of chlamydia
The signs of chlamydia can vary between women and men.
In men, common symptoms include:
Pain or discomfort at the tip of the penis
Unusual discharge from the penis or rectum
A burning sensation when urinating
Swollen or painful testicles
In women, common symptoms of a chlamydia infection include:
Vaginal discharge
A burning sensation when urinating
Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen, particularly after intercourse
Bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods
Bleeding following sexual activity
Around 70% of men and 50% of women with chlamydia may not show any symptoms, making it more likely for the infection to be unknowingly passed on to sexual partners. Without visible signs of the infection, individuals are less likely to seek treatment or take measures to prevent its transmission.
If you’ve had unprotected intercourse with someone who might be infected with chlamydia, it’s important to get tested as soon as you can.
Can chlamydia resolve on its own?
No, chlamydia typically does not clear up without medical treatment. Although some people may carry the infection without experiencing symptoms for months, it still requires proper treatment to prevent complications and transmission.
Consequences of untreated chlamydia
If chlamydia is not treated, over time it can lead to serious health issues.
Left untreated in men, chlamydia may result in:
A reduction in fertility
Reactive arthritis, which causes painful and swollen joints
Epididymo-orchitis, an infection of the testicles and the epididymis, the tube that carries sperm from the testicles
In women, untreated chlamydia can lead to complications such as:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may cause chronic pain and infertility, and a higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy
Reactive arthritis, leading to swollen and painful joints
Pregnancy-related issues, including miscarriages, stillbirths and premature births
Chlamydia testing
Chlamydia is one of the most frequently diagnosed STIs, especially among women aged 18 to 35. Regular testing is important for early detection and treatment, particularly for those who are sexually active.
A significant factor contributing to the rise in chlamydia cases is that the symptoms, particularly in women, are often hard to notice. This also holds true for men, leading to a rapid spread of the infection. However, once chlamydia has been diagnosed, it can be treated effectively with a course of antibiotics. If chlamydia is left untreated, women are at risk of complications like PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), fallopian tube damage, which can affect fertility, and an increased chance of an ectopic pregnancy.
The SELFCheck Female Chlamydia screening test involves taking a swab from the lower vaginal area. This is placed in a solution which can detect the presence of chlamydia. This test identifies chlamydia trachomatis infection and provides a clear visual result within five minutes.
Important Note: This test should not be used if you’re pregnant or during your period.
Chlamydia treatment
Chlamydia is treated with a course of antibiotics, with doxycycline being the most commonly prescribed option for most individuals. If there is a higher risk of complications, a longer course of antibiotics may be recommended by your doctor.
Alternative antibiotics may be prescribed if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you’re allergic to certain medications.
What is the most effective antibiotic to treat chlamydia?
The preferred treatment for chlamydia is doxycycline 100mg, taken twice a day for a period of 7 days. Doxycycline is highly effective, with a success rate of around 95%.
However, doxycycline might not be suitable for everyone. It isn’t recommended for those who are pregnant or are breastfeeding, in which case, an alternative antibiotic will be needed.
Azithromycin was previously the first choice for treating chlamydia, but is not recommended as the best option any longer. The guidelines were updated in 2018. This was because azithromycin proved less effective in treating a chlamydia infection that had spread to the rectal or anal areas, while doxycycline showed better results in these cases. Additionally, the single-dose of azithromycin was contributing to antibiotic resistance in other STIs, which prompted the shift to doxycycline as the primary treatment.
Do men and women receive the same treatment for chlamydia?
Yes, men and women are usually treated the same for chlamydia. However, exceptions exist for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those who have allergies to particular antibiotics, in which case alternative treatments may be recommended.
How does chlamydia treatment work?
Chlamydia treatment prevents the bacteria from producing a crucial protein needed for its growth and replication. By halting bacterial multiplication, the infection is cleared, and symptoms should get better as the body eliminates the bacteria.
In the UK, the first-line of treatment for chlamydia is doxycycline, usually prescribed as one tablet taken twice a day for a period of 7 days. Doxycycline tablets can be taken with or without food, but it’s important to drink water with them and remain upright for about half an hour after every dose to avoid stomach discomfort and throat irritation.
Is chlamydia treatment effective?
Chlamydia treatment with antibiotics is highly effective, with around 95% being cured when they follow the prescribed course of medication properly.
How long does it take to be clear of chlamydia after being treated?
Chlamydia usually clears within one week after completing the antibiotic treatment. It’s important to avoid alcohol completely during this time, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
You also need to abstain from sexual activity (even with condoms) until treatment is completed and the infection is fully cleared. Continuing to have intercourse during treatment can lead to passing the infection back and forth, causing repeated infections.
How long do the symptoms last after chlamydia treatment?
Your symptoms should begin to improve after completing your course of antibiotics. If your symptoms persist or are not improving, it’s advisable to take a further chlamydia test to ensure the infection has been fully cleared.
When is it safe to have intercourse again after being treated for chlamydia?
You should wait 7 days after starting treatment before engaging in any sexual activity, even with a condom, as you may still be contagious during this period. This ensures the infection is fully treated and prevents spreading it to others.
How can you tell if chlamydia is completely gone after the treatment?
Your symptoms should start to ease within 7 days of finishing your antibiotics. There’s usually no need for an immediate retest to confirm that the treatment was effective, as dead bacteria can still be present and may result in a false positive for 3 – 5 weeks post-treatment.
However, if you had a rectal infection, it’s important to take another test after finishing treatment to ensure the infection has been fully cleared.
For those under 25 who have tested positive, it’s recommended to have a follow-up test three months after finishing treatment to ensure you haven’t been reinfected.
Can chlamydia return after treatment?
Yes, it is possible to test positive for chlamydia again after having treatment.
This can happen if:
You had unprotected intercourse before finishing your treatment
You did not follow the prescribed course of antibiotics correctly
Does chlamydia treatment have any side effects?
Doxycycline is highly effective at treating chlamydia, but some individuals may experience side effects during the course of treatment.
Common side effects of doxycycline include:
Headaches
Vision issues
Sensitivity to sunlight (itching, rashes, or sunburn after exposure)
Low blood pressure
Palpitations (rapid heartbeat)
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Less common or rare side effects might include:
Vaginal infections
Yeast infections in the genital area
Heartburn
Loss of appetite
Anxiety
Flushing
Joint pain or muscle pain
Stomach ulcers
If you experience any side effects while taking doxycycline, contact your doctor promptly.
Important information about doxycycline side effects and precautions
For a comprehensive list of potential side effects and warnings, refer to the patient information leaflet included with your medication.
While taking doxycycline, it’s important to avoid all alcohol, as it can reduce the drug’s effectiveness. Additionally, avoid direct sunlight, as doxycycline can increase your sensitivity to light, which may lead to sunburn or skin reactions.
You must stop taking doxycycline and get urgent medical care if you experience any of the serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction listed here:
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
A skin rash, fever or swollen lymph nodes (these symptoms could indicate a severe drug reaction called DRESS, which stands for Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms)
Signs of an allergic reaction, for example, trouble breathing, chest pain, wheezing, or swelling of the face, mouth, lips, hands, or feet
How to take doxycycline for chlamydia
Doxycycline 100mg capsules need to be taken twice daily for 7 – 10 days to effectively treat chlamydia. Ensure your doses are spaced evenly, for example, one in the morning and one in the evening. Swallow the tablets with water, and you can take them with or without food. It’s important to take doxycycline while sitting or standing upright to prevent irritation. Continue the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve.
When should I take doxycycline?
Doxycycline is typically taken twice a day. Try to take your doses at regular intervals, such as one in the morning and another in the evening, to maintain even levels of the medicine in your body.
Dosage of doxycycline
The standard dose for treating chlamydia is 100mg, taken twice daily for 7 – 10 days. If you’re unsure of the dose, refer to your prescription or read the medication packaging for guidance.
Can I purchase doxycycline from a pharmacy?
Yes, but you will need to have a chlamydia test first, which you can purchase through our services. If you test positive, a pharmacist may review your results and prescribe doxycycline if it’s suitable for you.
Can I buy doxycycline over the counter?
No, doxycycline is a prescription-only medicine, meaning it cannot be bought over the counter. You need a prescription from a doctor or pharmacist.
Is it possible to get doxycycline on the NHS?
Yes, doxycycline can be prescribed through the NHS. You can obtain a prescription from your doctor or a local sexual health clinic to treat a chlamydia infection.
Doxycycline side effects
Doxycycline may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. If you notice any of the following serious side effects, stop taking doxycycline immediately and go to A&E:
Fever, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes, which could indicate a severe drug reaction
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Signs of an allergic reaction, like chest pain, facial swelling, a fever, or difficulty breathing
Severe skin reactions
Common side effects of doxycycline:
Hives
Shortness of breath
Rapid heartbeat
Sensitivity to sunlight, which may cause skin reactions
General headaches
Increased pressure in the skull, leading to headaches, blurred vision, or blind spots
Vomiting or nausea
Low blood pressure
Skin rashes
Inflammation of small blood vessels, which is known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura
Uncommon side effects of doxycycline include:
Vaginal infections such as thrush
Heartburn
Rare side effects include:
Jaundice, causing yellowing of the skin and eyes
Increased levels of urea in the blood
Yeast infections around the genital or anal area
Muscle and joint pain
Flushing
Redness and peeling of the skin
Porphyria, which involves sensitivity to sunlight, abdominal pain, and nerve inflammation
Loose fingernails or toenails after sun exposure (photoonycholysis)
Abnormal liver function test results
Hepatitis, or liver inflammation
Liver failure
Inflammation of the colon
Inflammation or ulcers in the digestive tract
Severe diarrhoea, which may be bloody or watery
Discolouration of thyroid tissue
Blood disorders
Anxiety
Reduced appetite
Pancreatitis
Ulcers or inflammation in the digestive tract
You might not experience any side effects, but if they do occur and persist for more than a few days, it’s important to consult your doctor. For serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately, call 111 or 999, or go to A&E without delay.
Doxycycline and sunlight sensitivity
Doxycycline can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight than normal, meaning even brief exposure can lead to itching, rashes, redness, severe sunburn, or discolouration of the skin. While taking doxycycline, it’s essential to protect yourself from the sun by following these tips:
Cover as much skin as possible with clothing
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes
Avoid using sunlamps or tanning beds
Apply a high-SPF sunscreen before going outdoors and reapply throughout the day
Use a lip balm with sun protection
Limit your time in the sun
If you get sunburnt, treat it as you would normally. If your symptoms are concerning, seek advice from your GP.
Doxycycline fatigue and dizziness
Doxycycline can cause fatigue and dizziness, often linked to low blood pressure. If these symptoms persist and do not improve, it’s important to contact your doctor for further advice.
Doxycycline and headaches
Headaches are a common side effect of doxycycline. You can safely manage these with over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
However, if you experience a severe headache accompanied by vision issues or vomiting, it could indicate increased pressure in the brain. In this case, seek immediate medical attention at A&E.
Duration of doxycycline side effects
The side effects of taking Doxycycline may subside within a few days as your body adjusts to the antibiotic. However, for some individuals, side effects can persist throughout the treatment period. Most side effects are mild and can be managed at home. If they become too troublesome, consult your doctor.
Managing doxycycline side effects
For common side effects like headaches, you can treat them at home by making sure you are drinking enough water, getting rest, and using over-the-counter pain relief.
If doxycycline causes a stomach upset, try taking the medication with food, which can help ease symptoms. Avoid rich and spicy foods and steer clear of dairy products such as milk and cheese, as these can interfere with the medication’s absorption. It’s also recommended to take the capsules while sitting or standing upright.
