selfcheck chlamydia test for women

The test detects Chlamydia trachomatis infection in women. Chlamydia infections are now one of the most commonly encountered sexually transmitted infections, particularly in females between the ages of 18-35. 

Part of the cause of the huge increase is due to the fact that, unlike other STIs, the symptoms associated with female Chlamydia are very difficult to detect. This also applies to male cohorts and, as a result, the spread of the disease has been dramatic.

If left untreated, females can develop a range of complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), damage to the fallopian tubes which may inhibit or prevent conception in later life and, lastly, an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. 

The SELFCheck Female Chlamydia test contains a vaginal swab.

The test can't be used during pregnancy.

The SELFCheck Female Chlamydia home screening test requires a swab from the lower vaginal area, which is then immersed in a solution to detect the presence or absence of chlamydia organisms. The test can be carried out in under 5 minutes and produces an easy to read visual result. 

You should not use the test during your menstrual period or within 3 days of the end of your period.

Also, do not use the test within 14 days of completing a course of antibiotics.

For Chlamydia we offer the same treatment that you would receive from a sexual health clinic or your G.P.

The first line treatment for Chlamydia as recommended by the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, BASHH, is a week long course of Doxycycline. If you are allergic to Tetracyclines, of which Doxycycline is a member, then our doctor can prescribe an alternative. 

Both treatments may produce side effects, the most common being gastro-intestinal, such as nausea, diarrhoea and stomach ache. You may also get a rash with Doxycycline if you are exposed to too much sunlight.

You will be asked to complete a short medical consultation questionnaire that our doctor reviews to make sure the treatment is both safe and  suitable for you.

You should not resume sexual activity (including genital, oral or anal sex), until 7 days after you have started your treatment. This applies to both treatments. Otherwise there is a high risk of re-infecting yourself   or passing on the infection to your partner.

Yes, we also offer a lab test where you take your sample at home and then send it to The Doctors Lab, TDL, for testing. You will receive your test results within 48 hours of the lab receiving your test swab sample.

The lab test for men involves sending a urine sample to the lab for testing.