An Increase in Chlamydia Cases in Australia
What You Need to Know
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmissible infections (STIs) in Australia. Since late last year case numbers continue to rise. Recent national data shows a steady increase in chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections, particularly among young people and those living urban area, including greater Melbourne.
At CBD Doctors Melbourne, we are seeing more patients seeking STI testing, rapid results, and same-day treatment, reflecting the growing awareness that no group is considered “low risk” anymore.
Why this is concerning?
- Up to 90% of infections of Chlamydia are asymptomatic
- Most people do not know they are infected with Chlamydia
- Chlamydia is treatable and curable with antibiotics
- Untreated chlamydia can lead to serious complications, including infertility
What Makes CBD Doctors Melbourne Different?
CBD Doctors Melbourne offers Point of Care (POC) PCR testing for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
- Results in just 30 minutes
- Same-day diagnosis and treatment giving you peace of mind
- No need to wait 2–3 days
- One appointment only
- Confidential care
- LGBTQI+ Friendly
- Central Melbourne location
This service is unique in Melbourne and to CBD Doctors Melbourne.
What even is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a STI caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is easily transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Chlamydia can infect:
- The genital tract (urethra and cervix)
- The rectum
- The throat
- The eyes (rare, but possible)
Why Chlamydia Often Goes Undetected
One of the biggest concerns with chlamydia is that it rarely causes visible symptoms. 85–90% of people have no symptoms at all, which means the infection can remain untreated for months or even years. Without testing, chlamydia can silently cause:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Infertility in women
- Epididymitis and fertility issues in men
What Are Some Common Symptoms of STIs?
While many STIs are asymptomatic, symptoms can include:
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
- Pelvic or testicular pain
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding
- Sore throat after oral sex
- Pain during sex
Symptoms are not reliable indicators of infection — testing is the only way to know for sure.
Who Should Get Tested for STIs?
If you are under 40 years old or sexually active, you are at the highest risk for chlamydia and gonorrhoea and should be tested regularly.
At CBD Doctors Melbourne, we recommend STI testing for:
- Anyone who requests STI testing
- Anyone who needs immediate clarity and can’t wait for days for a standard test results.
- People with a new sexual partner
- Have been notified by a sexual partner that they tested positive
- People travelling overseas and around Australia
- Have multiple sexual partners
- Anyone who had an STI in the last year
- Want fast results before travelling or important events
- Anyone who had sex with a partner diagnosed with a STI
- Sex workers
- Transgender people and their partners
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
There is no longer a “low-risk” group. Sexual orientation or identity does not determine STI risk.
The Changing STI Landscape in Australia
Until recently, heterosexual populations were considered low risk for blood-borne infections such as:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Syphilis
Congenital syphilis was once rare, and many doctors had never encountered it. That has changed. In 2024 and beyond:
- STI rates are increasing across all populations
- Syphilis cases are rising
- Gonorrhoea rates have nearly tripled in major Australian cities
- Melbourne has seen a four-fold increase in gonorrhoea among women
There is strong evidence that having one STI increases the risk of having another, which is why comprehensive testing is important.
There is no low-risk group anymore — regular testing is now essential for everyone who is sexually active.
What Happens If You Test Positive?
If you test positive for any STI:
- A doctor will prescribe treatment immediately
- Injections are available on site
- We will discuss partner notification and contact tracing
- We can also test and treat your partner(s) where appropriate
Early diagnosis means simple treatment and fewer complications.
Feeling Uncomfortable Discussing Sexual Health?
That’s okay:
- You do not need to disclose your sexuality
- We will order all the necessary tests
- Testing is confidential and respectful
- No judgement just a discreet fast service.
Take Control of Your Sexual Health
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are common, often silent, but completely treatable when detected early.
If you are sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners, regular STI testing is one of the most important things you can do for your health.
How to Book
Select any doctor that you prefer. Yes all the doctors at CBD Doctors Melbourne at assist you. Then select “Rapid STI test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea only”.
Useful links:
Meet your doctors: https://www.cbddoctorsmelbourne.com.au/meet-our-team/
How to book – booking with just is simple: https://www.cbddoctorsmelbourne.com.au/booking-with-us/
Find out more about rapid STI checks – https://www.cbddoctorsmelbourne.com.au/your-guide-to-rapid-sti-testing-at-cbd-doctors-melbourne/
ABC News – https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-19/sti-increasing-australia-lower-rates/105169548
Written by Dr Radosavljevic