Chlamydia (STI)

This is a common sexually transmitted illness (STI). One may not know that he or she has Chlamydia because many individuals never develop the symptoms or signs, which may include genital pain and a discharge from the vagina or penis. Chlamydia can occur in all age groups and occurs both in men and women, though it's more common among young women.

What causes Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is caused by bacteria that spread through vaginal, oral and anal sex. This can also spread from a mother to her child during delivery, causing pneumonia or a serious eye infection in her newborn.

Chlamydia infections in early stages often cause few or no signs and symptoms. When the signs do occur, they generally start one to three weeks after one has been exposed to Chlamydia. Many individuals overlook the signs and symptoms since they're often mild and passing.

What are the signs and symptoms of Chlamydia?

• Lower abdominal pain
• Painful urination
• Testicular pain in men
• Vaginal discharge in women
• Discharge from the penis in men

This condition is often treated with antibiotics. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of one's body and can lead to serious long-term health problems such as infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Prevention

Here are some ways to prevent a Chlamydia infection:

• Use condoms but remember that condoms used properly during sexual intercourse reduce but don't eliminate the risk of infection.
• Women shouldn't douche because it can decrease the number of good bacteria that is present in the vagina, thus increasing the risk of infection.
• Limit your number of sex partners.
• Get regular screenings.

Please seek medical assistance if you have any signs or symptoms of Chlamydia.