Sexuality and health: the hidden costs of screening for Chlamydia trachomatis

Screening women - but not men - for chlamydia could have unintended consequences. Experience from cervical screening shows that women have feelings of 'contamination,' reduced attractiveness, and sexual dysfunction and that a positive test result is associated with promiscuity. Screening women for chlamydia minimises further men's responsibility for sexual and reproductive health. Professional and public education about chlamydia should address the health needs of men and women and should not foster gender inequalities.