Will I be tested for chlamydia during my smear test?

A chlamydia test is not routinely carried out when you have a smear test. Many women think that it is and may be falsely reassured if their smear test results are clear.

Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STD), and it affects both men and women. However, it has few noticable symptoms, and most people don't even realize they have it. Chlamydia affects both men and women, and the more sexual partners you have, the more likely you are to catch it. However, having sex with just one person and not using a condom can still expose you to the infection.

The test for chlamydia can be carried out in a number of different ways. Testing isn't normally painful, but it may be uncomfortable. Either a urine test is done or a swab is taken from the urethra (the tube where urine comes out), the cervix (entrance to the womb), rectum, throat or eye.

Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics, and once it has cleared up, it won't come back unless you are re-infected. Make sure you tell the doctor or nurse if there is any chance you could be pregnant, as this can affect antibiotic treatment. To avoid re-infection, your partner should be treated too.

If you have had unprotected sex, if you are under 25, or if you have changed your sexual partner recently, it is particularly important to be tested for chlamydia. If your doctor is unable to carry out the test at your local hospital, contact your local STD clinic as soon as possible to make an appointment. Most large hospitals have a STD clinic.

Further information:

Chlamydia

Cervical screening test

Family Planning Association (FPA)