Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Testing

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the two most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections in the UK, and they share an important feature: much of the time they cause no symptoms at all. That is exactly why testing matters — and why finding them is nothing to be embarrassed about. Both are common, both are easily detected, and both are curable.

Why they often go unnoticed

A large proportion of people with chlamydia, and many with gonorrhoea, feel completely well. Because there are no obvious warning signs, these infections can be passed on unknowingly and can quietly persist. Testing is the only reliable way to know your status — it is not a sign that anything is wrong, simply a sensible check.

When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Unusual discharge from the genitals.
• Pain or a burning sensation when passing urine.
• Pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort.
• Bleeding between periods or after sex (in women).

How the test works

Both infections are detected with a highly accurate PCR test, which looks for the bacteria's genetic material. Depending on your situation the sample may be a urine sample or a self-taken swab, which you can usually collect yourself in private. The process is quick, straightforward and discreet.

Why treatment matters

Left untreated, these infections can occasionally lead to complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease and, in some cases, effects on future fertility. The good news is that both respond well to a straightforward course of antibiotics. Finding and treating an infection early prevents these problems and protects your partners too.

Telling partners

If you test positive, letting recent partners know allows them to get checked and treated too. This can feel awkward, but it is a normal part of managing these very common infections, and our clinicians can talk you through how to approach it sensitively and, if you prefer, anonymously through partner-notification services.

When to get tested

Consider testing with any new partner, after unprotected sex, as part of an annual check if you are sexually active, or if a partner has been diagnosed. If you have symptoms such as discharge or pain passing urine, arrange a test promptly. Whatever the reason, getting checked is a positive step, and results are always confidential.

Written by Dr Ibrar Ahmed — MBChB MRCP MRCGP PhD PG Dip (Cardiology)
Specialist interest: Cardiovascular Medicine · OneMedicine, CQC-registered clinic