A new-look, updated website from NHS Suffolk www.amiclear.com is encouraging sexually active young people in Suffolk to get checked out for the sexually transmitted infection Chlamydia which affects both men and women.

It is estimated that 1 in 12 people under the age of 25 in Suffolk who have sex may have Chlamydia. It can have serious long-term consequences such as infertility in both men and women.

Many people won’t know that they have the infection as up to 75% of women and 50% of men have no obvious signs or symptoms – the only way to be sure is to be screened for Chlamydia.

Fortunately, the test is simple and painless and easy to do yourself. Free screening kits can be ordered online through the updated website www.amiclear.com and all information given is confidential.

As well as offering an easy way of ordering a screening kit the website is a one-stop shop of information on Chlamydia, including:
– Remember, Chlamydia and other sexually transmitted infections can be prevented by using a condom, and sex can be just as good with a condom
– You should get screened even if you have no obvious symptoms
– Screening kits are painless and simple to use
– Chlamydia can easily be treated with antibiotics

Pam Frost, Sexual health manager at Suffolk Community Healthcare said:

“The new website offers an easy, convenient and confidential way of ordering a Chlamydia screening kit. The consequences of not being checked can be serious, so I would encourage young people to visit the site, order a kit, and take a look at the simple advice we offer on safe sex.”

1. Chlamydia testing kits are free to anyone who lives in Suffolk, is sexually active and aged between 16 – 24 years old.

2. Anyone aged under 16 can still be tested but would need please to visit a community clinic or GP clinic.

3. The Chlamydia Screening Programme is only funded for under 25 year olds, as this age group have the highest rates of infection. If you think you may have been in contact with the infection contact your nearest Sexual Health/GUM Clinic or ask the Practice Nurse at your GP Practice. Boots the chemist also sell screening kits.

4. With men symptoms can include a discharge from the end of the penis or pain and burning when urinating. Women could experience an increased need to urinate or pain when urinating or having sex. But most people will have no symptoms.

5. The new design website, with better interactive features, cost approximately £9,000 to build, a very small price compared with the benefits in cutting treatment costs and enabling young people to avoid long-term health consequences.

For more information about NHS Suffolk visit www.suffolk.nhs.uk