Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and it's easy to get if you don't protect yourself. The bacterium thrives and spreads through mucous membranes - that is, through anal or vaginal sex without a condom. It can also jump between bodies through oral sex and sex toys if they are shared without being properly cleaned. Even fingers that have been in contact with cock, pussy or ass can play a role. Chlamydia doesn't care about your sexuality or gender identity, so let's talk about how we can all enjoy ourselves safely.

Symptoms

Chlamydia can be localized in the genitals, throat or buttocks. In rare cases, chlamydia can also be found in the eyes. Many people with chlamydia don't feel anything at all, which makes it extra tricky. However, if symptoms appear, it can be a matter of:

• Sweating when you pee.
• Flows from cock, ass or pussy.
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or during anal sex.
• Bleeding between periods or after sex.

Testing

Getting tested is easy, quick and one of the best ways to take care of your sexual health - and your partners. Chlamydia can sometimes be tested after a few days, but wait at least a week after a suspected case for more reliable results.

Depending on how you have sex, you may be asked to provide a urine sample, an anal or vaginal sample and sometimes a throat sample. Therefore, it is important to tell the staff how you have had sex so that they do not miss taking any samples. In some regions, you can also order a test kit for chlamydia via 1177. However, these tests usually only contain a urine sample, so you cannot detect whether you have chlamydia in your throat or ass. If you are unsure about what to do - ask! No one is judging you.

Treatment

Chlamydia is no match for antibiotics. A one-week course and the bacteria are gone. However, it is important that you do not have sex during the treatment and until you have received clearance from the doctor that you are no longer infectious. Otherwise, there is a risk that you will pass on your chlamydia or get the infection back. Don't forget to inform previous partners so they can get tested - it's nothing to be ashamed of, just adult and responsible. If you feel uncomfortable, the staff at the clinic can also help you with this. Treatment for chlamydia is always free. 

How to protect yourself

Safer sex is smart sex! Here are some tips to minimize the risk of chlamydia:

• Condoms are your best friends, no matter what kind of sex you have.
• Clean sex toys between partners and use condoms on them if they are shared.
• Get tested regularly if you have multiple sexual partners. Whether you have used a condom or not. 
• Talk about sex and testing with your partners. It can be nerve-wracking, but it's often easier than you think - and it shows that you care.

Remember: protecting yourself is not about limiting pleasure, but about creating safety so that you and your partners can explore sex in a way that feels both fun and safe!