Chlamydia – Better Health Channel

Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and is a very common sexually transmissible infection (STI).

It is often called the ‘silent infection’ because most people do not realise they have it.

It can affect women and men of all ages, but most frequently occurs in young people (under 25) who regularly change sexual partners.

Chlamydia is spread by having unprotected sex of any kind with an infected person.

Who is at risk of chlamydia?

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of chlamydia. You are at increased risk of infection if you:

• Are young (under 25).
• Often have different or multiple sexual partners.
• Have any type of unprotected sex (without condoms) with someone who is infected with chlamydia.

What are the symptoms of chlamydia in women?

Most women with chlamydia, have no signs or symptoms.

It can infect the cervix and spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing:

• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• chronic pelvic pain
• ectopic pregnancyExternal Link
• infertility.

If a pregnant woman has chlamydia, it can pass on to her baby during childbirth – causing lung or eye infections.

In women (if symptoms are present), may include:

• unusual vaginal discharge
• burning feeling when urinating
• pain during sex
• bleeding or spotting between periods
• bleeding after sex
• lower abdominal pain.

What are the symptoms of chlamydia in men?

Men who have chlamydia usually do not have any signs or symptoms.

In men, chlamydia infects the urethra and may spread to the epididymis – the tube that carries sperm from the testicles.

In men (if symptoms are present), may include:

• discharge from the penis
• discomfort when urinating
• sore, swollen testes.

How often should I get checked for chlamydia?

Sexual health check-ups are recommended for anyone who is sexually active. Frequency of testing also depends on your STI risk:

• An annual sexual health check-up (which includes chlamydia testing) is highly recommended if you are sexually active – especially if you are under 25.
• Get checked more often during the year if you frequently change sexual partners.
• Remember, you are at greater risk if you have sex without a condom with 1 or multiple sexual partners.

How does chlamydia spread?

Chlamydia is spread when a person has unprotected sex (sex without a male or female condom or dental dam) with an infected person.

Because chlamydial infection often has no symptoms, many people do not realise they have the infection.

Even if you know a person well, you may not be able to tell they have an STI, because people can look healthy and still have chlamydia.

Remember, you can get chlamydia and other STIs from a new sexual partner who has in the past had sex with someone who is infected.

It can also be spread from a long-term partner who has had sex with other people.

How is chlamydia diagnosed?

Chlamydia is an easily diagnosed and curable STI.

Tests are painless and usually involve either:

• a simple urine test
• swab from the vagina, cervix, anus or penis.

The specimen is then sent to a laboratory for testing.

Getting your chlamydia test results

Test results are normally available within a week.

How is chlamydia treated?

If detected early, chlamydia can be treated with a single dose of antibiotic.

If complications from chlamydia infection are present – such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women – a longer course of antibiotics will be required.

Do not have sex for 7 days after you and your current partner have completed treatment. This includes all kinds of sex (vaginal, anal and oral) with or without a condom.

You can get reinfected with chlamydia if you have sex within the 7 days.

After you have completed treatment, have another test for chlamydia in 3 months’ time to make sure you have not been re-infected.

Can you get reinfected with chlamydia?

Chlamydia reinfection is common. Having chlamydia once does not stop you from getting it again.

Even after you’ve been successfully treated, you can still be reinfected if you have unprotected sex with someone who has the infection.

Letting partners know you have chlamydia

Sexual partners may be infected too. If you have chlamydia, anyone you have had sex with from the last 6 months needs to be informed, tested and treated.

If they don’t know, they could reinfect you or infect someone else if they are not treated. don’t receive treatment.

Most people will appreciate being told they may have an infection and it is an important step in preventing further infection in the community.

You do not have to do this alone. Your (GP) doctor, sexual health centre or the Department of Health Partner Notification Officers can help you through this process and ensure your identity is not revealed.

This publication outlines the role of Partner Notification Officers (PNOs) who work in the Office of the Chief Health Officer of the Department of Health:

You can also anonymously notify your sexual partners of the need to get tested and treated for chlamydia via the Let Them KnowExternal Link website if you feel unable to speak to them personally.

There are also nurses (called partner notification officers) who can help you anonymously notify your partners. They can be contacted on (03) 9096 3367.

How to help partners get treatment

If you are not sure whether your sexual partner(s) will seek treatment, ask your doctor for extra chlamydia medication (or a prescription). You can give it to them so they can be treated as soon as possible.

This is known as patient delivered partner therapy (PDPT) for chlamydia. Talk to your doctor to see if PDPT is right for you and your sexual partner(s).

Reducing chlamydia transmission

Safer sex practices reduce the risk of STI transmission. Ways to reduce your risk of catching chlamydia include:

• Practise safe sex – use condoms and water-based lubricant (lube) for all types of sex. Female, (or internal) condoms can also be used for vaginal or anal sex.
• If you are sexually active, get a full sexual health check (including tests for syphilis, HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia) at least once a year. Get checked more often if you frequently change sexual partners.
• After you have completed chlamydia treatment, get tested in 3 months’ time to check you have not been re-infected.

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)
• Your school nurse or school welfare coordinator
• Some secondary schools provide access to an adolescent health trained GP on siteExternal Link
• Your local community health service
• Sexual Health Victoria’s ClinicsExternal Link Tel. 1800 013 952 or (03)9660 4700 (also is youth friendly)
• Sexual Health VictoriaExternal Link Tel. 1800 013 952 or (03) 9257 0100
• Melbourne Sexual Health CentreExternal Link Tel. (03) 9341 6200 or 1800 032 017 or TTY (for the hearing impaired) (03) 9347 8619
• Thorne Harbour HealthExternal Link (formerly Victorian AIDS Council) Tel. (03) 9865 6700 or 1800 134 840
• Ballarat Community Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5338 4500
• Bendigo Community Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5434 4300 Or (03) 5448 1600
• Gateway Health Clinic 35External Link, Wodonga Tel. (02) 6022 8888 or 1800657 573
• Sunraysia Community Health ServicesExternal Link Tel. (03) 5022 5444
• Barwon Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5226 7489
• Victorian Supercare Pharmacies
• Victorian Aboriginal Health ServiceExternal Link Tel: (03) 9419 3000
• 1800MyOptionsExternal Link Tel:1800 696784 is a statewide phone service for information about sexual health as well as contraception and pregnancy options

5 possible long-term effects of chlamydia – Blog

Medically reviewed by Neka Miller, PhD on January 21, 2021. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. While it is usually easy to cure with a round of antibiotics, untreated chlamydia can potentially contribute to severe health issues without treatment. Continue reading to learn more about the long-term effects of chlamydia when it goes untreated, and if you suspect you may have chlamydia, consider taking an at-home chlamydia test.

Check For Chlamydia Today!

What is chlamydia?

Chlamydia trachomatis, also known simply as chlamydia, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a type of bacteria. It is one of the most common STIs with close to 3 million cases in the United States every year. Commonly transferred through unprotected sex, the chlamydia bacteria can travel through sexual fluids—including semen, pre-cum, and vaginal fluids, and it can infect the penis, urethra, vagina, cervix, anus, and throat.

Related: Chlamydia vs. UTI: what’s the difference?

A significant challenge with chlamydia is that it often presents no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Even when it does present symptoms, they can be so mild that they are easy to ignore or can be mistaken for other common conditions.

Some common signs and symptoms of chlamydia include:

• Painful urination
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Testicular pain
• Bleeding between periods
• Painful sexual intercourse

Long-term issues

In the absence of regular chlamydia testing, the lack of noticeable symptoms can make a long-term, untreated chlamydia infection more likely. Unfortunately, this can lead to some long-term health problems. While these issues can affect all sexes, they are often more common among women.

Check For Chlamydia At Home!

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease (or PID) is an infection that affects the female reproductive organs. It can occur when certain bacteria, like the bacterium that causes chlamydia, spreads into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Much like chlamydia itself, the initial symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease are often mild and hard to recognize until they reach more advanced stages. Symptoms can include:

• Mild to severe pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen
• Heavy, abnormal discharge that may have a foul odor
• Abnormal bleeding, particularly during or after intercourse, outside of regular menstrual periods
• Painful, frequent, or difficult urination
• A fever reaching up to 101° Fahrenheit

The pain can become chronic, and excessive damage to the ovaries and fallopian tubes because of PID can contribute to infertility.

Epididymitis

While long-term problems in men are rare, some men with untreated chlamydia may develop epididymitis. This refers to inflammation in the epididymis, a coiled tube at the back of the testicles that is responsible for storing and carrying sperm. This inflammation can sometimes spread to a testicle, resulting in epididymo-orchitis.

Symptoms for epididymitis include:

• Swelling and redness in the scrotum
• Pain or tenderness in the testicles, usually only on one side
• Abnormal discharge
• Blood in the semen
• Pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen
• Painful, urgent, frequent urination

Reactive arthritis

Rarely, chlamydia may cause reactive arthritis. Similar to other forms of arthritis, this condition causes inflammation in the joints, particularly in your knees, ankles, and feet. The inflammation can potentially extend to your eyes, urethra, and skin. Along with pain and stiffness in the joints, reactive arthritis may result in:

• Mouth sores, rashes on your palms and soles of your feet, and other skin issues
• Lower back pain that is frequently worse at night
• Urinary problems
• Swollen fingers and toes

Ectopic pregnancy

Untreated chlamydia can also lead to an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, a pregnancy wherein the fertilized egg ends up implanted outside of the uterus. The pregnancy cannot proceed as normal, and without treatment, an ectopic pregnancy can be fatal if medical attention is not received immediately. Experiencing an ectopic pregnancy is thus a medical emergency.

Increased risk of fertility issues

Chlamydia can eventually cause excessive damage and scarring to the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or testicles, all of which can contribute to a higher risk of infertility.

Testing for chlamydia

Diagnosing chlamydia is the first step to getting proper treatment. With the Everlywell Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Test, you can accurately determine if you have chlamydia or gonorrhea in the comfort of your own home. If the test shows positive results, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with our independent physician network and may receive treatment. (Everlywell also offers a more comprehensive at-home STD test that lets you check for 6 common sexually transmitted infections.)

Wondering how long it takes to get tested? You might be surprised at how quickly chlamydia testing can be done. Read our blog “How long does a chlamydia test take?” to learn more about the timing of chlamydia tests.

Buy At-home Chlamydia Testing

Related content

Can chlamydia come back after treatment?

References

1. Chlamydia trachomatis. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed January 21, 2021.

2. Chlamydia. Planned Parenthood. URL. Accessed January 21, 2021.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed January 21, 2021.

4. Epididymitis. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed January 21, 2021.

5. Reactive arthritis. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed January 21, 2021.

Chlamydial infection in children: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Chlamydial infection in a child – symptoms, causes and treatment. Learn how to recognize and effectively treat chlamydial infection in children to prevent possible complications and protect your child’s health.

Chlamydial infection is a common disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can affect various organs and systems of the body, including the genital organs, eyes, and respiratory system. In children, chlamydial infection often results from transmission of the bacterium from an infected mother during childbirth or through contact with infected objects.

Symptoms of chlamydial infection in children can be varied and depend on the affected organ. Babies with an eye infection may develop discharge, redness, and swelling of the eyelids. Older children may have symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, trouble urinating, or discharge from the genitals.

To diagnose chlamydial infection in children, a doctor may order laboratory tests, such as an eye swab, urine test, or genital discharge. It can also be tested for the presence of antibodies to the bacteria in the blood.

Treatment for chlamydial infection in children usually involves taking antibiotics to help kill the bacteria. It is also important to treat all family members and avoid contact with infected items. Regular visits to the doctor and hygiene will help prevent re-infection and complications.

Chlamydia infection in children

Chlamydia infection in children is one of the common diseases caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This infection can affect various organs and systems of the body, including the eyes, respiratory tract, and genitals.

Symptoms of chlamydial infection in children may vary depending on the organ affected. For example, with chlamydial conjunctivitis, a child has redness and swelling of the eyes, discharge from the eyes, and difficulty opening the eyelids. Children with chlamydial bronchitis may experience cough, shortness of breath, fever, and weakness.

Chlamydial infections in children are diagnosed using a variety of methods, including laboratory tests. One of the most common methods is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which allows the detection of chlamydia DNA in biological material.

Chlamydia infection in children is usually treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the recommendations of the doctor. It is important to follow the entire course of treatment to the end in order to prevent the recurrence of infection.

Hygiene measures such as regular hand washing, avoiding contact with infected people, and the use of condoms during sexual intercourse are recommended to prevent chlamydial infection in children. It is also important to have regular check-ups and checks for infection, especially if risk factors are present.

Symptoms of chlamydial infection in children

Chlamydial infection in children can present with different symptoms depending on the age and sex of the child. However, most often, the symptoms of chlamydial infection in children may be subtle or similar to those of other diseases.

Infants with chlamydial infection may experience symptoms such as runny nose, cough, drowsiness, irritability, and loss of appetite. In older children, symptoms of a chlamydial infection may include inflammation of the eyes, abdominal pain, fever, and changes in urination.

In some cases, chlamydial infection can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, tear duct inflammation, and bladder inflammation. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor if suspicious symptoms appear and conduct the necessary diagnostics to establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Diagnosis of chlamydial infection in children

Diagnosis of chlamydial infection in children is an important step in determining the presence and extent of the disease. For this, various methods and studies are used that allow to identify the presence and concentration of chlamydial antigens in the child’s body.

One of the main diagnostic methods is a laboratory test. For this, biomaterials are collected, such as urine, swabs from the mucous membranes or the blood of the child. Samples are sent to a specialized laboratory where immunofluorescence analysis or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is performed.

Immunofluorescent assay is based on the principle of antibody binding to chlamydial infection antigens. In this case, fluorescent markers are used, which allow visualization of associated complexes. The PCR method allows you to detect DNA or RNA of chlamydial agents in a biomaterial sample, which allows you to establish an accurate diagnosis.

In addition, the diagnosis of chlamydial infection in children may include testing for IgG and IgM antibodies. Elevated levels of these antibodies may indicate the presence of an infection in the child’s body. For this, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or immunochromatographic analysis (IHA) is performed.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of chlamydial infection in children should be performed by a specialist physician and in accordance with protocols and guidelines. Only a comprehensive and accurate study can give a complete picture of the child’s health and determine the necessary treatment.

Treatment of chlamydial infection in children

Treatment of chlamydial infection in children should be comprehensive and include the use of antibiotics, hygiene measures and strengthening the child’s immune system.

The main drug used to treat chlamydial infection in children is azithromycin. This antibiotic is effective against chlamydia and has minimal side effects. The dosage of azithromycin is determined by the doctor depending on the age and weight of the child.

In the treatment of chlamydial infections in children, hygiene measures are also recommended. The child should regularly bathe with antiseptic solutions, use separate towels and bed linen, and avoid contact with other children during illness.

An important point in the treatment of chlamydial infection in children is to strengthen the immune system. The child should be provided with a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as regular exercise and walks in the fresh air.

After completion of the course of treatment, the child is recommended to undergo control tests for the presence of chlamydial infection to ensure the effectiveness of the therapy. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe a second course of treatment.

Prevention of chlamydial infection in children

Chlamydial infection is a common disease in children, so it is important to take measures to prevent it. The main prevention methods are:

1. Hygiene : Washing hands regularly with soap and water, especially after visiting public places and contact with sick children. It is also important to keep toys, bedding, and other items that can be a source of infection clean.
2. Condom use : For adolescents who are sexually active, it is important to use condoms to protect against chlamydia and other sexually transmitted infections.
3. Vaccination : Vaccines are available to help protect against certain types of chlamydial infection. Regular vaccinations as recommended by your doctor will help reduce the risk of infection.
4. Screening : In children who are at increased risk of chlamydia infection, regular screening is recommended to detect infection and promptly treat it.
5. Avoiding contact with sick people : If the child is in contact with a sick person, especially with chlamydial infection, measures should be taken to prevent transmission of the infection, such as the use of masks and limiting close contact.

Following these steps will help reduce the risk of chlamydial infection in children. However, if an infection is suspected, a doctor should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment.

Complications of chlamydial infection in children

Chlamydial infection in children can lead to various complications if not detected and treated in time. One of the most common complications is pneumonia. Chlamydial pneumonia can develop in newborns and infants, causing symptoms such as cough, difficulty breathing, and fever.

Another possible complication of chlamydial infection in children is conjunctivitis. Chlamydial conjunctivitis manifests itself as inflammation and redness of the eyes, accompanied by discharge and itching. This condition can be painful and uncomfortable for the child, and can lead to visual impairment if not treated promptly.

Chlamydia infection can also cause complications in the genitourinary area. In girls, it can lead to inflammation of the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which can cause pain and lead to future infertility. In boys, chlamydial infection can cause the testicles to become inflamed, which can lead to pain and dysfunction.

Complications of chlamydial infection in children can be serious and have long-term consequences. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of infection and get timely treatment.

Chlamydial infection in children: recommendations for parents

Chlamydial infection is one of the most common diseases in children. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. To protect their child from this infection, parents should follow some guidelines.

1. Maintain hygiene. Remember that chlamydia is transmitted through contact with infected secretions, so it is important to teach your child to wash their hands properly and avoid contact with possible sources of infection.

2. Pay attention to the symptoms. Chlamydial infection can present with a variety of symptoms, including discharge from the eyes, runny nose, cough, pain when urinating or in the lower abdomen. If you notice these symptoms in a child, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

3. Get tested. For an accurate diagnosis of chlamydial infection, special laboratory tests are required. Parents are advised to regularly check their children for this infection, especially if they have risk factors or if they have been in contact with infected people.

4. Follow your doctor’s instructions. If your child has been diagnosed with chlamydial infection, it is important to follow all of the doctor’s recommendations for treatment. Antibiotics are usually used and must be taken according to the prescribed schedule and dosage.

5. Prevent reinfection. Chlamydial infection can recur, so parents should take steps to prevent re-infection. This includes the use of condoms during sexual intercourse, hygiene, regular examination and treatment of all family members if one of them becomes infected.

Conclusion: Chlamydial infection in children is a serious disease, but following the precautions and recommendations of a doctor will help prevent and treat this infection. Parents should be alert to the symptoms and take steps to protect their child from this infection.

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of chlamydial infection in children?

Symptoms of chlamydial infection in children may include cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, fatigue, weakness, irritability, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

How can chlamydial infection be diagnosed in children?

Various methods are used to diagnose chlamydial infection in children, including throat or nose swabs, urine tests, stool tests, and blood tests to determine the presence of chlamydia antibodies.

How to treat chlamydial infection in children?

Treatment for chlamydial infection in children usually involves antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. It is important to take antibiotics as recommended by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment to avoid relapses.

How can chlamydial infection be prevented in children?

To prevent chlamydial infection in children, good hygiene practices are recommended, including regular handwashing with soap and water, avoiding contact with sick people, especially when coughing or sneezing, and using condoms during sexual intercourse during adolescence.

What are the possible complications of chlamydial infection in children?

Possible complications of chlamydial infection in children include the development of pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, ear inflammation, and digestive problems such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.

How long does it take to treat a chlamydial infection in children?

The duration of treatment for chlamydial infection in children may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the drug, but treatment usually lasts 7 to 14 days. It is important to take antibiotics as recommended by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment to avoid relapses.

Can chlamydial infection in children be cured without antibiotics?

Symptoms of chlamydial infection in children may include cough, runny nose, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, eye discharge, fever, constipation or diarrhea. In newborns, the infection may present as conjunctivitis, pneumonia, or skin pustules.

How is chlamydial infection diagnosed in children?

Diagnosis of chlamydial infection in children includes history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Lab tests may include tests of urine, blood, and discharge from the eyes or genitals, as well as PCR tests to detect chlamydia DNA. Instrumental studies may include a chest x-ray or ultrasound.

Chlamydial infection in children: important facts

Chlamydial infection in children is a common disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This infection is transmitted through contact with infected secretions such as saliva, snot, or eye discharge.

Symptoms of chlamydial infection in children may include conjunctivitis (eye inflammation), rhinitis (runny nose), cough, abdominal pain, and fever. Some children may have mild or no symptoms at all.

Diagnosis of chlamydial infection in children is usually based on clinical symptoms and a history of exposure to the infection. Laboratory tests, such as blood tests or swabs from the eyes or nose, may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for chlamydial infection in children usually involves antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. Treatment must be prescribed and monitored by a physician. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if the symptoms have disappeared, in order to completely eliminate the infection.

The consequences of chlamydial infection in children can be serious if left untreated. This can lead to complications such as constipation in the eyes (chlamydial conjunctivitis) or pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs). Therefore, it is important to see a doctor when symptoms appear and start treatment as soon as possible.

Prevention of chlamydial infection in children includes hand hygiene, avoidance of contact with infected secretions, and use of condoms during sexual intercourse in adulthood. It is also important to regularly screen and treat infected parents to prevent transmission to children.

Related videos:

Chlamydia – KVD №2

What is chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The disease is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis (Chlamydia trachomatis), which affects the female genital area and is the cause of non-gonococcal urethritis in men. Manifestations of chlamydia are usually minor or absent, but serious complications develop. Complications can cause irreparable damage to the body, including infertility – all this proceeds very secretly.

Chlamydia also causes penile discharge in infected men.

Ways of transmission of chlamydia

Chlamydia can be transmitted through:

• vaginal or anal contact with an infected partner;
• less common with oral sex;
• use of sex toys with an infected partner;
• infection of a newborn during childbirth from a sick mother.

Absolutely all sexually active people can get chlamydia. The greater the number of sexual partners, the greater the risk of infection. The risk of infection is especially high in girls, because their cervix is ​​not fully formed. About 75% of new cases occur in women under 25 years of age. By the age of 30, approximately 50% of sexually active women have had chlamydia. In sexually active men, the risk of infection is highest between the ages of 20 and 24.

You cannot get chlamydia through kisses, hugs, dishes, baths, towels.

Manifestations of chlamydia

Chlamydia is very secretive. About 75% of infected women and 50% of infected men are asymptomatic. If manifestations of the disease develop, then this occurs approximately 1 to 3 weeks after infection.

In women, chlamydia first affects the cervix and urethra (urinary canal).

Manifestations:

• unusual vaginal discharge;
• pain or discomfort when urinating;

If the infection penetrates to the appendages, manifestations are possible:

• pain in the lower abdomen;
• pain in the lumbar region;
• nausea;
• slight increase in temperature;
• pain during intercourse or bleeding after it;
• bleeding between periods.

Symptoms in men:

• clear or cloudy discharge from the penis;
• pain or discomfort when urinating;
• there may be burning and itching in the area of ​​the outlet of the urethra;
• rarely pain and/or swelling of the testicles.

Men or women who have anal sex with an infected partner can infect the rectum, resulting in inflammation, pain, discharge, or bleeding from the rectum.

Chlamydia can cause sore throat (pharyngitis) in men and women who have oral contact with an infected partner.

What complications can develop if chlamydia is not treated?

If the disease is not treated, serious short-term and persistent complications develop. Like the disease itself, complications often occur insidiously.

In women with untreated chlamydia, the infection can spread from the urethra to the fallopian tubes (the tubes that carry the egg from the ovaries to the uterus) – this causes (in 40% of cases) the development of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID causes permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues. Chronic pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy are the result of PID.

Women with chlamydia are more susceptible to HIV infection, the risk increases by almost 5 times.

To prevent serious consequences of chlamydia, an annual chlamydia screening is required for all sexually active women 25 years of age and younger. An annual examination is necessary for women over 25 who are at risk (new sexual partner, multiple sexual partners). All pregnant women should be screened for chlamydia.

Complications of chlamydia are rare in men. The infection sometimes extends to the epididymis and causes pain, fever, and, rarely, male infertility (sterility).

Rarely, chlamydial infection can cause inflammation of the joints in combination with skin lesions, inflammation of the eyes and urinary tract – this is the so-called Reiter’s syndrome.

The effect of chlamydia on a pregnant woman and her child

Chlamydia in pregnant women increases the risk of miscarriage, premature detachment of the placenta. Newborns from infected mothers can get eye and lung infections. A lung infection (pneumonia) can be fatal to a newborn.

Diagnosis of chlamydia

Diagnosis includes observation of the patient’s clinical symptoms, testing for chlamydia smears from the cervix, scraping from the urinary canal, the first morning urine. Most often, the study is carried out by PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Swabs and scrapings may cause minor discomfort.

Additionally, a blood test is performed by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) for the presence of immunity to chlamydia, this auxiliary test often helps to establish an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment of chlamydia

Chlamydia is treated with oral antibiotics. To prevent re-infection, all sexual partners must be found, examined and treated. Patients with chlamydia should refrain from unprotected sex during treatment, otherwise it is possible to re-infect the sexual partner. Unfortunately, after successful treatment, re-infection with chlamydia is possible, since a strong immunity to this microorganism does not develop. Repeated infection of women with chlamydia leads to a significant increase in the risk of serious complications, including infertility. A re-examination is carried out 4 weeks after treatment.

Chlamydia prevention

The best way to prevent sexually transmitted infections is through long-term sexual contact with one healthy sexual partner. Latex male condoms, when used correctly, drastically reduce the risk of transmission.

Annual chlamydia screening required for all sexually active women aged 25 and under. An annual examination is also necessary for women over 25 who are at risk (new sexual partner, multiple sexual partners). All pregnant women should be screened for chlamydia.

Any manifestations, such as pain or discomfort when urinating, unusual rash, discharge are a signal to stop sexual intercourse and immediately examine in a specialized clinic – KVD. If the patient is found to have chlamydia (or any other STI), he must inform his sexual partners so that they also undergo a full examination and appropriate treatment.