Chlamydia

Chlamydia is caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis.

How do you get it?

Chlamydia can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Symptoms

Chlamydia is known as a "silent" disease because three quarters of infected women and half of infected men have no symptoms.

Women may experience abnormal vaginal discharge, a burning sensation when urinating, lower abdominal pain, lower back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, and bleeding between menstrual periods.

Men might have a discharge from the penis, burning sensation when urinating, burning and itching around the opening of the penis, and pain and swelling in the testicles.

Complications

In men, it typically causes urethral infection, which includes pain and fever and can lead to infertility.

In women, it can cause PID and proctitis, which is an infection of the lining of the rectum. They may also have a higher risk of acquiring the HIV infection.

In both, it can damage reproductive organs and cause permanent damage.

Treatment

Chlamydia can be treated and cured with antibiotics. A single dose of azithromycin or a week of doxycycline are the most commonly used treatments.

Resources: Heritage House '76, Inc.