Questions and answers about chlamydia and sex work

New research shows that chlamydia usually does not cause symptoms and clears up on its own without affecting your health or fertility. Medication is not needed and does not prevent its spread. 

Research has shown that frequent testing and treatment for chlamydia do not lead to less infections. This has been studied in various countries. 

We also know now that taking antibiotics has downsides. It can damage healthy mucous membranes in your body, making you more prone to fungal infections. Antibiotics can also become less effective if used too often. 

Chlamydia typically clears up on its own and is not harmful to your health. Only if you have symptoms should you get tested. Treatment will make your symptoms go away faster.

Do you have symptoms that match chlamydia? Then the GGD will test for chlamydia and provide treatment for your symptoms. If you do not have symptoms, the GGD will no longer test for chlamydia. The GGD will continue to test for other STIs. 

Check ‘What are the symptoms of chlamydia?’ to find out what symptoms are associated with chlamydia.

No, chlamydia does not cause infertility. Do you have a uterus? And did you have chlamydia with symptoms? Then there is a very small chance that it might take a few weeks longer to get pregnant. We know this from new research. 

If you had chlamydia without symptoms, your chances of becoming pregnant are just as good as someone who has never had it.

Go to a doctor. You will be tested and treated if you have chlamydia. Symptoms associated with chlamydia can also be signs of other STIs or conditions like a bladder infection. Your doctor can test to determine the source of your symptoms. 

If you have chlamydia, take a break from work and wait at least one week after treatment before having sex again.

Employers cannot force you to undergo testing. This is stated in Dutch law. If you still want to be tested without symptoms, discuss this with your doctor or nurse. Your GP can still test you for chlamydia if you do not have symptoms. 

You can also order a test from a private provider. Here is a list of reliable providers (in Dutch): 6 betrouwbare aanbieders van private soa-zorg | Soa Aids Nederland. Chlamydia testing can be ordered starting from €30.

This was decided by the National Coordination for Infectious Disease Control (LCI). They advise the Ministry of Health based on scientific research. The LCI is a group of doctors and scientists. They work independently and provide advice. This new policy comes from a guideline on STIs, created by a team of doctors and other experts.

The policy is based on new research. Read more on the RIVM website (in Dutch): https://www.rivm.nl/soa/actueel

GPs use different guidelines than the GGD. The guidelines for GPs will likely change in the future as well, but for now, they are still based on different insights.