Q & A
We recognise the importance of confidentiality.
Please see bottom of page for our Privacy Statement
The Test
Will I ever need to have another test?
You should have another test if you or your partner have unprotected sex with someone else. We don't mind how often you have a test!
What if I don't want to take the test?
This is not a problem. You have every right to refuse to take part in any programme. It will not affect the way you are looked after in the future. If you change your mind, you are welcome to come for a test at any time.
Will my GP be told I have taken the test?
We don't usually inform your GP that you have taken a test. We make every effort to ensure people with a positive result receive antibiotic treatment. If you haven't collected your antibiotics, we may contact your GP to assist us. You can let us know if you don't want us to contact your GP under any circumstance.
Will the test hurt?
You only need to give us sample of urine to test. so the test doesn't hurt.
Who will find out I've had a test?
We will not be telling anyone you've had a test, we may contact your GP if you need treatment and we can't get in touch with you, but this will only be if you have given us permission to do this.
You will need to think about who you need to tell if you have a positive test ?
Is the test always right ?
No test is 100% accurate, but this test is very sensitive and specific to these infections.
The test we use is called the GEN-PROBE Aptima 2 Combo assay for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. If you would like to find out more information about the test visit http://www.gen-probe.com/products/aptima.aspx
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Chlamydia
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection.
Most people who have chlamydia have no symptoms and don't know they've got it.
More than 1 in 10 sexually active young people who are tested have Chlamydia.
It effects both men and women. If you are gay or bisexual you are still at risk of catching chlamydia.
How do I know if I have Chlamydia?
Most people do not have any symptoms, which is why it is important to be screened. However if you do have any symptoms make an appointment at your local GUM clinic
Symptoms in Women are:
-A vaginal discharge that is different to your usual discharge.
-The need to pass urine more often.
-Pain in the lower abdomen (low tummy pain).
-Bleeding between periods or bleeding after sex.
Symptoms in men are:
-A discharge from the tip of the penis.
-Pain and /or burning when passing urine.
-Irritation at the tip of the penis.
-Painful swelling of the testicles.
How have I got chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection. It can be caught by having sex without a condom.
What happens if I don't get treated?
Without proper treatment the infection can spread to other parts of the body causing damage and serious long-term complications.
In women
Chlamydia can spread to other reproductive organs causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This can lead to lower tummy pain, blocked fallopian tubes, infertility and ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy that occurs outside the womb).
In men
Chlamydia can lead to a painful infection in the testicles and possibly reduced fertility. It is thought that in some men it might cause the prostate to become inflamed.
In men and women
Inflammation or swelling of the joints can occur. This is sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the urethra (tube from the bladder to the outside of the body) and the eye, when it is known as Reiter's syndrome. This is rare and occurs more in men than in women.
How will I know if Chlamydia has affected my fertility?
Chlamydia is just one of many factors that can affect your fertility. However, the more episodes of infection a person has, the more likely it is to cause complications which can affect fertility. If you have had chlamydia you will not normally be offered any routine tests to see if you are fertile unless you and your partner find that you have difficulty getting pregnant. If you are concerned, talk to your GP or practice nurse.
What happens if I get Chlamydia when I'm pregnant?
Chlamydia may be linked to early miscarriage or premature birth of the baby. It can be passed to the baby during the birth and (less commonly) before the baby is born. This can cause inflammation and discharge from the baby's eye (conjunctivitis) and pneumonia.
Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics when you are pregnant and when you are breastfeeding - the antibiotics won't harm the baby - but do tell the doctor or nurse that you are pregnant to make sure the correct type of antibiotic is prescribed. You will also need to return for a repeat test.
Will I know how long I have had the infection?
A positive test result does not give any indication of the length of time someone has been infected for. You may not have any symptoms at all or they may appear a long time after you have been exposed to chlamydia.
How would I know who has given me Chlamydia ?
You might not know whether you have caught it from your current or a previous sexual partner. These doubts can be hard to handle. Some people feel upset or angry when they have an STI and find it difficult to talk to their partner or friends. Don't be afraid to talk about how you feel with the staff at the clinic.
How do I protect myself from Chlamydia ?
Condoms, Condoms, Condoms !
Wearing a condom can significantly reduce the risk of getting Chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases.
What if I have tested positive for Chlamydia and have just had a baby ?
If you have tested positive for chlamydia and you have recently had a baby via a normal vaginal delivery, the baby may have been exposed to the infection. However most babies do not develop problems and do not need any treatment.
You can download an information sheet from the health professionals page on our website.
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Results
How will I get my results ?
You can choose to get your results by SMS text, phone call or letter.
How long will it take to get my results ?
You should be contacted by us within 2 weeks. If you haven't heard from us after 2 weeks give us a ring on 0800-046-1303.
What if my result is Positive ?
We will try and contact you by phone to talk to you about this in confidence. If we can't get hold of you in person we may send you a text message or letter asking you to contact us (if we have your permission on the test request form.)
What will the SMS text say ?
The text will not have your name on. It will just say " Your recent
Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea tests were negative, no infection was seen. "
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Treatment
Will the antibiotics clear the infection completely?
Yes, providing you follow the instructions you are given and you take the tablets as instructed. Usually you will be asked to take 4 tablets, but this may vary.
Where will I get my treatment ?
When we contact you we will arrange treatment at a time and place of your choice. We would want you to be treated as soon as possible.
When can I have sex again after my treatment ?
You should have no sex (oral ,vaginal or anal) for 7 days after treatment, so that the antibiotic has had enough time to work. If you have a regular partner you will need to wait for 7 days after they have also had treatment.
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Money
Do I have to pay for the test or treatment ?
The test and treatment are free.
Who funds RU Clear?
RU clear Chlamydia screening is an NHS service and is funded by all the Primary Care Trusts in Greater Manchester.
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Gonorrhoea
What is Gonorrhoea ?
Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection you get by having sex with someone who is already infected.
How do I know If I have Gonorrhoea ?
Gonorrhoea is much less common than Chlamydia. You may not know you have it. Women often don't get symptoms. In men you will usually develop a yellow green discharge from your penis within a few days of being infected. If you have Gonorrhoea orally or anally (in your throat or in your arse ) you probably wont know. An RUClear test only tests for genital infection.
Do I have to be tested for Gonorrhoea as well as Chlamydia ?
Yes, in Greater Manchester the test we use tests for both infections at the same time.
How is Gonorrhoea treated ?
If you have Gonorrhoea you will be referred to your nearest sexual health clinic for another test to find out which antibiotic is best for you.
What happens if I don't get treatment ?
Untreated gonorrhoea can cause complications. In women the infection can track up inside and cause pelvic infection. In men the infection can cause painfull swollen balls (testicles).
Why do you test for Gonorrhoea as well ?
If you have Chlamydia you are more likely to have been at risk for other sexually transmitted infections (STI for short). The test we use in Greater Manchester always tests for both infections.
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Other Questions
Who can I talk to if I'm worried?
The Ru Clear Office on: 0800-046-1303
Can you get Chlamydia from a blow job (oral sex) ?
Yes. You can get Chlamydia from giving and receiving oral sex. The screening test is only testing for genital chlamydia, if you are worried about a risk from oral sex mention it when you go for a test, or call us on 0800-046-1303.
What if I am worried about other Sexually Transmitted Infections ?
How do I get a test if I am over 25 ?
The National Screening Programme is specifically designed for under 25's and their sexual partners of any age. If you are over 25 and worried about Chlamydia your GP or you local sexual health clinic will be able to arrange for a test.
Can you catch Chlamydia from a budgie or a parrot ?
Budgies and Parrots can have a disease called Chlamydia psittacacae, which can be passed to humans (not sexually !), where it causes a chest infection called psittacosis. The RU Clear test is looking for genital Chlamydia trachomatis.
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Confidentiality
Will you tell my parents ?
Under no circumstances would we inform your parents that you had taken a test , or of your result.
Who will know about my test ?
RU Clear keeps confidential records of your Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea testing and treatment details.
The laboratory where the sample is tested keeps confidential records of test results.
If you were tested at a clinic , that clinic will also get details of your test results.
When RU Clear arranges treatment for you we will share your test result with the health care professional treating you - so they can give you the right medication and care.
Will my GP be informed of my result ?
We do not normally inform your GP about your test (unless you tested at your GP practice).
However if you have an infection and we have not been able to contact you - we will do all we can to contact you, this may include contacting your GP and making them aware that you have an infection.
Can I get a test if I am under 15 ?
Yes, as long as the person offering you the test feels that you understand the implications of testing. (This is called being "Fraser competent.").
If you are under 16 the person offering the test has a duty to make sure you stay safe. Ask about the confidentiality policy at the place you get tested.
If you are under 13, please contact your local clinic for advice.
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