Chlamydia: The Silent STI Most People Don't Know They Have
70% of women and 50% of men with chlamydia have zero symptoms. It's the most common bacterial STI in the world, and it's completely curable with antibiotics from your doctor. But only if you know you have it.
have no symptoms
How common is chlamydia in South Africa?
What are the symptoms of chlamydia?
Most people with chlamydia have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, they differ by anatomy. Tap below to see symptoms for each group.
"Chlamydia is the STI I diagnose most frequently at Epicentre, and almost every patient says 'but I had no symptoms.' That's exactly the point. By the time symptoms appear, the infection may have already caused damage to the reproductive system. PCR testing catches it in 3 to 5 days."Dr. Samantha Naidoo, MB ChB, FCP (SA), Medical Director, Epicentre
What happens if chlamydia is left untreated?
Chlamydia is curable, but only if detected. This is the progression if it's not treated.
Where can I test for chlamydia in South Africa without a referral?
PCR testing detects chlamydia in 3–5 days after exposure, weeks faster than antibody tests. No referral. No blood draw for PCR tests. Walk in or order a home kit.
Small PCR (4 pathogens)
Chlamydia + gonorrhoea + herpes (HSV-2) + trichomoniasis. Good starting point.
Medium PCR (9 pathogens) ⭐
Adds Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, HSV-1, E. coli. Most popular. Catches infections rapid tests miss.
Chlamydia is included in every Epicentre sexual health package. View all packages →
💑 Tested positive? How to tell your partner
Both partners must be treated simultaneously, otherwise you'll just reinfect each other. 1 in 5 people get chlamydia again within 3 months when their partner isn't treated.
"I tested positive for chlamydia. It's really common and easily treatable. We both need to see a doctor for treatment."
Come into Epicentre together. Same-day testing. Private rooms. No judgment.
Your GP or our partner doctors will prescribe the right antibiotics. Treatment is quick and straightforward.
Avoid sex for 7 days after treatment. Then you're clear.
Chlamydia: Your Questions Answered
Can you have chlamydia without symptoms?
Yes. 70% of women and 50% of men have zero symptoms. You can carry it for months or years. Regular testing is the only answer.
How soon can I test after exposure?
PCR: 3–5 days. Antibody tests take weeks. Epicentre uses lab-grade PCR for all sexual health panels.
How is chlamydia treated?
A short course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Both partners must be treated. Avoid sex for 7 days after completing treatment.
Can chlamydia come back after treatment?
The infection is cured, but you can be reinfected by an untreated partner or new exposure. 1 in 5 get it again within 3 months if partner isn't treated.
Does chlamydia cause infertility?
Yes, if untreated. It can scar fallopian tubes, causing infertility and ectopic pregnancy. In men, it can cause epididymitis and reduced fertility. Testing prevents this.
Can I get chlamydia from oral sex?
Yes. Chlamydia can infect the throat through oral sex. It's usually asymptomatic at this site. Throat swabs can detect it.
How much does chlamydia testing cost?
Chlamydia is included in all Epicentre PCR packages: Small R1,235, Medium R1,508, Large R1,925. Students 10% off. Payflex 4× interest-free. View all packages →
Other infections in this guide
Chlamydia is Curable. But Only If You Test.
One blood-free test. Simple treatment from your doctor. Done. No referral needed.
