Everything You Need to Know About Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Often symptomless, it can cause serious reproductive complications if left untreated :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Causes & Transmission
- Transmitted via vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Can spread through genital fluid or sharing sex toys :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
- Pregnant women can pass it to their newborn during childbirth :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
Symptoms
- Up to 70–90% of women show no symptoms (“silent infection”) :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- When present, symptoms may include vaginal discharge, burning during urination, lower abdominal pain, pain during sex, or bleeding after intercourse :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Rectal infections may cause pain, discharge, or bleeding :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
Complications if Untreated
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
- Increased risk of HIV infection :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
- In newborns: eye infections (conjunctivitis) and pneumonia :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
Diagnosis & Testing
- Recommended annual screening for sexually active women under 25 or with risk factors :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
- Testing methods: nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) using urine or swab of cervix, vagina, urethra, throat, or rectum :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
- Self-collected vaginal swabs are an accepted option in many settings :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
Treatment
- Antibiotic cure: typically azithromycin or doxycycline (or erythromycin, amoxicillin during pregnancy) :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
- Both patient and sexual partner(s) must complete treatment to prevent reinfection :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
- Abstain from sex for at least 7 days post-treatment initiation :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
- Follow-up testing recommended ~3 months after treatment to check reinfection status :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
Prevention
- Condom use during vaginal, oral, and anal sex; monogamous testing of partners :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
- Do not share sex toys or ensure proper cleaning and condom coverage when sharing :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
- Abstaining from sexual activity is the only guaranteed prevention method :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical evaluation if you have symptoms, a partner tests positive for chlamydia, or if you're due for routine STI screening. Regular screening is key—even without symptoms—especially for women under 25 or with multiple partners :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
Summary
Chlamydia is a treatable bacterial STI that often presents no symptoms. Early detection through screening and prompt antibiotic treatment can prevent complications. Practice safer sex and regular testing to protect your reproductive and overall health.