Birmingham's Chlamydia Screening Programme
This is one of the most commonly found STIs and is thought to affect around 1 in 10 sexually active young people. Caused by infection with tiny bacterium, there are usually no symptoms, unless it leads to complications, which can be both painful and serious, sometimes leading to infertility.
The chlamydia screening programme across Birmingham is part of the National screening programme which aims to target young people under the age of 25 who are most at risk of picking up this sometimes very serious condition.
Where can I obtain screening?
Screening tests are available from some general practices - just ask at reception or look out for the advertisements or ask your practice nurse or doctor. Testing is also available in the Birmingham Walk in Centre situated in the lower ground floor of the central Boots store, family planning and contraception clinics, and Birmingham Brook. The screening team are working to open up new points of contact across the City
What does it involve?
Cervical screening does not mean an internal examination by a doctor or nurse. You will be given a simple kit with containing a small swab. You should insert this gently into the vulva and a little further into the vagina in order to obtain some mucus from the lining. The swab is then replaced into the container provided and after completing the details and contact form, return all the items to the clerk in the envelope
This is a completely confidential and free service. Following your sample's submission, you will receive a confidential call or text giving the results of your test in the next fortnight.BeeSure : Chlamydia Testing 0121 465 3700
Chlamydia is a big deal because approximately 1 in 10 sexually active young people have chlamydia. The problem is that most have no signs or symptoms. So must won't know that they have it. If left untreated, it can damage your health. People infected with Chlamydia might notice unusual discharge, pain when peeing or having sex, bleeding after sex or between periods, lower abdominal pain or painful testicles.
To get a free, confidential test, call Bee Sure on 0121 465 3700. If BeeSure find you have chlamydia, you will receive free antibiotic tablets to sort it out. You can reduce the risk of infection by using condoms every time you have sex.
