A burning, stinging, or uncomfortable sensation when urinating, which is a common sign in both men and women.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) can affect both men and women, often without showing symptoms in its early stages. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious complications. These include infertility and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy in women, as well as epididymitis in men.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
Chlamydia often goes unnoticed as many individuals experience no symptoms, making it challenging to detect without regular screening. When symptoms do occur, they vary depending on the site of infection and may differ between men and women.
Painful Urination
Unusual Discharge
Women may experience abnormal vaginal discharge that appears cloudy, yellow, or foul-smelling. Men may notice watery or cloudy discharge from the penis.
Abdominal Pain and Discomfort
Women may experience lower abdominal or pelvic pain, which can intensify during sexual intercourse, while men may notice pain, swelling, or tenderness in one or both testicles, often accompanied by a feeling of heaviness.
Rectal Symptoms
Pain, bleeding, or discharge from the rectum, which can occur in both men and women, especially after anal sexual contact with an infected partner.
Oral Symptoms
Symptoms such as throat irritation, redness, white spots, or cold sore-like lesions around the mouth may develop if the infection is transmitted through oral sex. These symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, like strep throat.
Eye Symptoms (Chlamydia Conjunctivitis)
Red, irritated, or watery eyes, sometimes accompanied by sticky discharge, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision. This occurs if the infection spreads to the eyes, either through direct contact or touching the eyes with contaminated hands.
Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)
A more severe form of chlamydia, LGV may cause painless genital sores, followed by fever, and swollen, tender lymph nodes in the groin or other areas of the body.
Causes and Risk Factors
Chlamydia transmission occurs through specific behaviours and circumstances that increase the likelihood of infection.
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Unprotected Sexual Activity
Engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex without using condoms or other protective methods allows the bacteria to spread through direct contact with infected mucous membranes.
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Multiple Sexual Partners
Having multiple sexual partners heightens the chances of exposure to infected individuals, significantly increasing the risk of transmission.
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Age
Young adults under the age of 25 are at a higher risk due to biological susceptibility and patterns of sexual behaviour commonly seen in this age group.
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Previous STIs
Individuals with a history of sexually transmitted infections are more likely to engage in behaviours or have conditions that predispose them to further infections.
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Mother-to-Child Transmission
Babies can acquire chlamydia during childbirth if the mother is infected, potentially leading to eye or lung infections in the newborn.
Different Types of Chlamydia Infections
Chlamydia infections manifest in different forms depending on the affected body site.
Urogenital Chlamydia
The most common form affecting the reproductive organs and urinary system. This type causes typical genital symptoms and can lead to serious complications if untreated. Long-term infection may damage reproductive organs and affect fertility.
Ocular Chlamydia
Affects the eyes and can cause trachoma or inclusion conjunctivitis. This form spreads through direct contact with infected eye secretions or contaminated objects. Without treatment, it may lead to scarring of the cornea and potential blindness.
Oral Chlamydia
This type occurs when the infection affects the throat, often transmitted through oral sex with an infected partner. Although it is less common, oral chlamydia can still cause discomfort and requires prompt treatment to prevent further complications.
Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)
A more invasive form of chlamydia affecting the lymphatic system. LGV initially presents as a painless genital ulcer followed by swollen lymph nodes. This type requires longer antibiotic treatment than standard chlamydia infections.
Diagnostic Methods
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing: PCR testing is a diagnostic method used to detect the genetic material of Chlamydia bacteria in urine samples or swabs. This testing technique amplifies the DNA of the bacteria, allowing for accurate identification even with low bacterial counts. Results are typically available within 24-48 hours, making it a reliable standard for diagnosing chlamydia.
- Physical Examination: Doctors examine affected areas for visible signs of infection and complications. The examination helps determine the extent of infection and identify any immediate complications requiring treatment.
- Screening Tests: Regular screening occurs during routine sexual health check-ups for at-risk individuals. Different sample types may be collected based on sexual practices and symptoms.
Same-Day & Anonymous PCR Testing Available
Get fast, confidential answers — without the wait.
TAF Clinic offers same-day PCR results for Chlamydia testing when you arrive before 12pm. For tests conducted after 12pm, results are typically ready by the next working day. No more spending days anxious about your status.
We also provide fully anonymous testing — no name, no identification required.
Your privacy is protected throughout the entire process.
- Rapid PCR results — same-day (before 12pm) or next-day (after 12pm)
- Anonymous testing available — completely confidential
- No GP referral needed — walk in or book an appointment
- MOH-accredited clinic — professional care you can trust
- Combined screening — tests for both Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea
Price: $218 (inclusive of GST) for combined Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea PCR testing
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing is a highly accurate laboratory method for detecting both Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae from urine or swab samples. This dual-test approach screens for both common STIs in one visit, and is effective even in asymptomatic cases.
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Treatment for Chlamydia
Chlamydia responds well to antibiotic treatment, with specific medications prescribed based on infection severity and location.
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Azithromycin
A single-dose treatment that effectively clears most uncomplicated infections. Patients must avoid sexual activity for seven days after treatment to prevent reinfection.
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Doxycycline
A seven-day course of antibiotics taken twice daily. This treatment option requires strict adherence to the prescribed schedule for effectiveness.
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Alternative Antibiotics
Different antibiotics may be prescribed for pregnant women or those allergic to standard treatments. These alternatives maintain effectiveness while ensuring patient safety.
Screening Package
STI2
$130
- Chlamydia trachomatis
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Prevention and Management of Chlamydia
Practice Safe Sex
Consistent use of condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex significantly reduces the risk of transmission.
Routine Testing
Regular STI testing is necessary, particularly for individuals under 25 or those with multiple partners, to detect infections early and prevent complications.
Treatment Adherence
During treatment, abstain from sexual activity until both partners complete the full course of antibiotics and are cleared of the infection.
Partner Notification and Treatment
Ensure all recent sexual partners are informed, tested, and treated to prevent reinfection or further spread of the disease.
Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid
MBBS (NUS)
Member of SASO
Member of SMHS
Member Of ISSM
With over 15 years of experience in clinical practice and healthcare management, Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid focuses on men’s health and weight management. He is also a member of the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM), reflecting his continued commitment to men’s wellness.
His care approach incorporates evidence-based medical procedures and tailored solutions designed to meet individual needs.
Dr Taufiq’s professional background spans a range of medical disciplines, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to guide patients in achieving their health goals. He is certified in circumcision techniques using the Shang Ring and ZSR Stapler methods, offering efficient and minimally invasive procedures completed in less than 15 minutes.
Education, Experience & Affiliations
Dr. Taufiq began his medical career as a Medical Officer under MOHH from 2006 to 2014, gaining valuable experience in multidisciplinary healthcare at Alexandra Hospital, KK Hospital, Bright Vision Hospital, and AMK THK Hospital.
From July 2017 to March 2021, he served as Chief Resident Physician at DTAP Clinic Somerset Branch, focusing on men’s health and providing holistic, patient-centered care.
As Medical Director at Pulse Medical Centre from April 2021 to December 2024, Dr. Taufiq led multidisciplinary care and advanced patient-first practices.
He holds certifications in ShangRing Circumcision, ZSR Stapler Circumcision, SCOPE certification, and ShangRing Training (Wuhu, Snnda, 2018). He is also a Certified Trainer for ShangRing Circumcision, ZSR Stapler Circumcision, Touchstone Circumcision, and the Storz T-Top Duolith Shockwave Therapy Machine.
In 2024, he completed the Androcourse under the Society of Men’s Health Singapore. Dr. Taufiq is a member of the Society of Men’s Health Singapore (SMHS), the Singapore Association for the Study of Obesity (SASO), and the International Society of Sexual Medicine (ISSM), reflecting his ongoing commitment to men’s health and weight management.
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Our Location
SBF CENTER MEDICAL SUITES
160 Robinson Rd, #05-05, Singapore 068914
Mon – Thu: 9:00am to 2:00pm, 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Fri: 9:00am to 12:30pm, 2:00pm to 6:00pm
Sat: 9:00am to 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Fri: 9:00am to 12:30pm, 2:00pm to 6:00pm
Sat: 9:00am to 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be immune to chlamydia after having it once?
No, a previous chlamydia infection does not provide immunity. You can contract the infection multiple times, even from the same partner if they have not been properly treated. This highlights the importance of ensuring both partners are tested and treated.
Does treatment guarantee complete recovery?
Treatment effectively eliminates the infection and prevents further complications. However, it cannot reverse any permanent damage already caused, such as scarring or fertility issues. Early detection and treatment are necessary to minimise long-term effects.
What are the long-term effects of untreated chlamydia?
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease in women, epididymitis (inflammation of the testicles) in men, and an increased risk of contracting or transmitting HIV. Timely treatment is necessary to avoid these outcomes.