Free Self-Test Chlamydia Kits for Bideford Under 25s

Under 25s in Bideford

can now pick up a free self-test chlamydia kit from their local pharmacy.

The free kits are

available to people aged 16-24 from Boots Pharmacy at High Street, Bideford.

Beccy Lyons, NHS

Devon’s chlamydia screening coordinator, said: “We know young people are not

always keen to discuss their sexual health with a pharmacist or health worker

so they can now pick one up from our pink and blue bins.

“The chlamydia test

is simple – all you have to do is take away the kit, pee in a pot for men, or

take a vaginal swab for women, fill in the attached form, and post it back to

the chlamydia screening office – freepost.

“You can choose

how you’d like to receive your results – either by SMS text or email – all in

complete confidence.

“Chlamydia is a

growing problem for young people but it can be easily treated through a short course

of antibiotics, available free for under 25s through the NHS.”

Chlamydia is the

most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infection in the UK and if left untreated can cause back pain

and can lead to infertility in women.

It is easily

passed from one person to another through unprotected sex (including oral sex).

Young people can also

be screened for Chlamydia at their local GP practice, minor injuries unit or

online at www.checkinitout.co.uk

and now they can visit their local participating pharmacy and pick up a free

self-test kit.