Key messages for patients

These notes are provided for possible use by clinicians in discussing investigations and treatment options with patients who may have chlamydial infection. They are not intended for direct distribution to patients, but might be incorporated into locally-developed patient information materials.

Chlamydial infection:

• is the commonest bacterial STI in Scotland
• is curable
• is asymptomatic in the majority of patients and thus may remain undiagnosed for long periods of time
• may be diagnosed within a stable relationship
• can result in serious morbidity if not treated, for example PID, tubal infertility and ectopic pregnancy
• is sexually transmitted, so attempts should be made to notify partners, avoiding sex until they have been treated
• using condoms helps protect against all STIs

Valuable information for patients is contained in the leaflets "What is chlamydia?", produced by the Family Planning Association, FPA Scotland, Unit 10 Firhill Business Centre, 76 Firhill Road, Glasgow G20 7BA, and "What do you know about Chlamydia and NSU?" produced by the Health Education Board for Scotland, Woodburn House, Canaan Lane, Edinburgh EH10 4SG.