CHLAMYDIA
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia Trachomatis is the most common bacterial sexually transmitting infection (STI) in the U.S for men and women.
How do you get Chlamydia?
Chlamydia can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be passed from a mother to her child during birth. In rare instances, Chlamydia can be passed from the hand to the eye during oral sex.
What are the symptoms of Chlamydia?
Seventy-five percent of women and 50% of men show no symptoms. When symptoms for Chlamydia do appear, they are occur 1-3 weeks after the initial infection.
In women, the bacteria first infect the cervix and urethra. Symptoms might include: abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. Left untreated, the infection may spread to the fallopian tubes where symptoms might include: abdominal pain, low back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, and bleeding between menstrual periods.
In men, symptoms might include: discharge or itching from opening of the penis, and a burning sensation while urinating. Pain and swelling in the testicles is also a symptom, though uncommon.
Men and women who have anal intercourse may become infected with Chlamydia in the rectum. Symptoms here might include rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding.
Chlamydia can also be spread to the throat by having oral sex with an infected partner.
How is Chlamydia diagnosed?
Chlamydia is diagnosed by a urine test or by taking a sample from the infected area.
How is Chlamydia treated?
Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics. All sexual partners should be evaluated, tested, and treated for Chlamydia and abstain from sexual contact until treatment is complete to avoid re-infection.
Left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to serious health complications, including Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (P.I.D.), a progressive infection of a woman’s reproductive system.
How do I prevent Chlamydia?
Correct and consistent use of condoms during sexual activity will reduce the risk of getting infected with Chlamydia.
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