Say Yes to Chlamydia Test

Torbay Care Trust is backing a new national sexual health campaign which encourages people to receive test for Chlamydia.

 Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the UK, and 1 in 10 young people in Torbay are thought to have the infection, however with Chlamydia being a silent infection, often with no symptoms many young people often won’t be aware that they could be putting their sexual health at risk.

 The new campaign called Chlamydia: worth talking about is supported by the National Chlamydia Screening Programme and follows the Contraception: Worth Talking About campaign, launched in November by the Department of Health and the Department for Children, Schools and Families.  It aims to address many of the issues faced by young people such as being worried about accepting a Chlamydia test because they are not sure what’s involved, or find it embarrassing. It will also remind people that testing and treatment for Chlamydia is easy and painless and often with little or not intervention as many of the test can now be carried out on your own.

 Debbie Stark, Director of Public Health for Torbay said “Encouraging people to be more open and accepting of testing will work towards breaking down some of the barriers associated with talking about STIs or getting screened. 

 “The nature of the infection means that many people will be completely unaware that they could be putting their health at risk. Without treatment Chlamydia can lead to a range of health issues such pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy as well as arthritis if left undetected, which is why saying yes to a test is so important.”

 Karen McMahon, Matron for the Women’s and Sexual Health Service in Torbay said “Many people don’t realise what a test involves which is why it can sometimes be a daunting experience. The Chlamydia test is quick, simple and can be done your self which means no examination is involved.

 “Accepting a test is nothing to be worried or embarrassed about, it is free, confidential and you can choose how you would like to receive your results, being tested regularly and protecting yourself through the use of condoms is the best way to look after your sexual health.”

 For more information about the new campaign visit www.nhs.uk/worthtalkingabout

 If you are 25 or under you can receive a free postal kit by visiting www.freetest.me.uk  or call the Chlamydia screening office on 01803 656500.