What is Chlamydia?

Sometimes referred to as the silent infection because it is often without symptoms, Chlamydia (klah-MIH-dee-ah) is the most common and most invisible sexually transmitted diseases. Its full name is Chlamydia trachomatis (trah-ko-MAH-tis). It is a kind of bacteria that can infect the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, urethra, or even the eye.

 
 

Symptoms of Chlamydia

Chlamydia, usually, has no symptoms. 75% of women and 50% of men have no symptoms.

Most people are not aware that they have the infection.

When symptoms do occur, they may begin in as little as 5-10 days after infection.

 

 

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Women:

  • Bleeding between menstrual periods

  • Vaginal bleeding after intercourse

  • Abdominal pain

  • Painful intercourse

  • Low-grade fever

  • Painful urination

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge

Men:

  • Discharge from the penis

  • Pain while passing urine

  • Swollen or tender testicles

Chlamydia can also make men sterile. It can spread from the urethra to the testicles.
 

How is chlamydia spread?

Having vaginal or anal intercourse with an infected partner spreads chlamydia. It can also spread from a woman to her foetus during birth.

Effects

In women and men, chlamydia may cause the rectum to itch and bleed. It can also result in a discharge and diarrhoea. If it infects the eyes, chlamydia may cause redness, itching, and a discharge.
 

Early treatment is important as Chlamydia can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and infertility. In men, Chlamydia can also cause non-specific urethritis. Young adults have the highest rates of chlamydia. Chlamydia can also affect pregnancy. Between 20 and 50 percent of children born to women with chlamydia will be infected.

Diagnosis

  • Examination of the cervix and cervical discharge

  • Laboratory tests of cells from the penis, cervix, urethra, or anus

  • Examination of urine samples

 
 

Is there a treatment for chlamydia?

Yes. Chlamydia is easy to treat. Antibiotics kill chlamydia bacteria.

How to avoid getting chlamydia?

  • Use a female or male condom every time.

  • Have routine check-ups for sexually transmitted infections.

  • Abstain from sexual intercourse if you are not in a faithful relationship.

  • Avoid alcohol and other drugs as these will impair your judgement and reduce your ability to make safe decisions.

Where to go to get tested and treated for chlamydia?

Health centres, STI clinics, doctors, and health departments offer testing, treatment, and counselling.