What chlamydia is and how it spreads
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It spreads through vaginal, anal and oral sex, and can be passed even without symptoms. It's most common in younger sexually active people, but anyone who's sexually active can get it.
The tricky thing about chlamydia is that most people have no symptoms at all, so it often goes unnoticed and untreated — which is exactly why regular testing matters.
Symptoms (when there are any)
When symptoms do occur, they can include unusual vaginal discharge, pain or burning when urinating, pain during sex, bleeding between periods or after sex, and lower abdominal pain. In men, symptoms can include discharge and burning, though many have none either.
Because symptoms are so often absent, you can't rely on how you feel — testing is the only way to know.
Testing and treatment
Testing is simple: usually a urine sample or a self-collected swab, arranged through a GP and done at a collection centre. Results are confidential. Chlamydia is easily cured with antibiotics. It's important that recent sexual partners are also tested and treated to prevent reinfection, and to avoid complications like pelvic inflammatory disease, which can affect fertility if chlamydia is left untreated.
If you'd like an STI check — routine or because of a concern — a telehealth consult can arrange testing discreetly and review your results with you. There's no judgement; it's a normal part of looking after your health.
Related condition
STI checks →References & sources
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
Ready to speak with a GP?
Book a private telehealth consult with an AHPRA-registered Australian GP.