7 Signs You May Have Chlamydia -- Symptoms, Causes, Effects, Treatment and Prevention
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can infect both men and women and is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected individual. Chlamydia can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth.
Symptoms of Chlamydia:
Many individuals infected with chlamydia may not experience any noticeable symptoms, particularly in the early stages of the infection. However, when symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the site of infection. Common symptoms may include:
- Abnormal discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Lower abdominal pain (in women)
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Testicular pain or swelling (in men)
- Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding (if the infection is in the rectum)
- Sore throat (if the infection is in the throat)
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (in women), which can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021a).
Causes of Chlamydia:
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected individual. The bacterium can infect the reproductive tract, as well as the rectum and throat. Transmission can occur even if ejaculation does not occur (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021a).
Effects of Chlamydia:
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to various complications, including:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): In women, untreated chlamydia can lead to PID, which is characterized by infection and inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. PID can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Increased risk of other infections: Chlamydia can make individuals more susceptible to acquiring or transmitting other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021a).
Treatment and Prevention of Chlamydia:
Chlamydia can be treated and cured with antibiotics. It is important to complete the full course of prescribed medication to ensure eradication of the infection. Sexual partners should also be notified and tested for chlamydia to prevent reinfection. Prevention strategies for chlamydia include:
- Safe sex practices: Using latex condoms correctly and consistently during sexual activity can reduce the risk of chlamydia transmission.
- Regular screening: Regular STI testing, including chlamydia screening, is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners or engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors.
- Abstaining from sexual activity: Avoiding sexual activity is the most effective way to prevent chlamydia, particularly for individuals who are not in a mutually monogamous relationship (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021b).
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021a). Chlamydia: Symptoms & causes. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia-detailed.htm
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021b). Chlamydia: Treatment & prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia-detailed.htm
