WHAT WAS THE C PROJECT?
The C-project was an innovative on-line pilot project designed to promote chlamydia testing and increase awareness of chlamydia in young people. Self testing kits were distributed by peer educators at targeted events and through this website (which included an electronic order form and kit instructions).
The test for chlamydia is a simple urine test. Those who were interested in being tested were sent a kit, complete with information and instructions and a free CD wallet. They could then drop their sample off in a C project bin at designated venues in Sydney and results were then sent out to the person.
The C Project has come to an end and kits are no longer available. See below for information about chlamydia and where to go for a test or contact the Sexual Health Infoline on 1800 451 624.
CHLAMYDIA: WHAT IS IT?
Chlamydia is a Sexually Transmissible Infection (STI) caused by a bacteria. Rates of Chlamydia have been increasing every year and it is now the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in Australia! The highest rates are reported amongst 15 to 25 year olds. So if this is you, think about it. A test to see if you have Chlamydia is easy! If you want to know more about it read on…
For instance, did you know that…
- Many people who have it do not know but can still pass it on to someone else?
- Chlamydia can affect the urethra (tube that carries urine from bladder to outside), cervix (neck of the womb), anus, throat and eyes?
- And if untreated, Chlamydia can result in infertility and ongoing pain.
Read on to learn how would you know you have it, what Chlamydia can do to a woman or a man, how can you catch it, how can you protect yourself, how you can get tested and how is it treated.
HOW WOULD YOU KNOW YOU HAVE IT?
Chances are someone may have Chlamydia for months, or even years, without knowing it, unless they get tested. Up to 90% of women and 70% of men never show any symptoms. But if you have symptoms, they can occur 2–14 days after catching it.
Women
- If a woman has Chlamydia, she may notice cramps or pain in the lower abdomen; changes with her periods; bleeding or pain during or after sex; or a change in her vaginal discharge. She may also have no symptoms at all.
Men
- If a man has Chlamydia, he may notice a discharge from the eye of the penis; pain when passing urine; and swollen or sore testicles. He may also have no symptoms at all.
HOW CAN YOU CATCH CHLAMYDIA?
Chlamydia is spread by having sex without a condom. You can get Chlamydia when you have vaginal or anal sex with someone who has Chlamydia. If a mother is infected, her baby can become infected as it is being born.
HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF?
Using a condom during vaginal and anal sex will ensure you do not catch Chlamydia.
HOW CAN YOU GET TESTED?
Contact the Sexual Health Infoline on 1800 451 624 to find out where you can go for a chlamydia test in your area or see a local GP.
HOW IS IT TREATED?
Chlamydia is treated by a single dose of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Your sexual partner(s) will need treatment too, so they don't give it back to you or pass it on to someone else.
