The facts you should know about chlamydia
Date:2018-12-06 click:0
Chlamydia is an infection of the reproductive organs caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a very common condition and there are no clear risk factors. It often occurs in young adults; simply changing sexual partners can put anyone at risk.
If chlamydia is not diagnosed soon after infection, complications may occur in both women and men. Fortunately, it can be simply and effectively treated.
What are the symptoms of chlamydia?
Most people with chlamydia do not have any symptoms and are unaware they have the infection.
In women, chlamydia can infect the cervix or urethra. Symptoms can include:
Pain when urinating
Discharge from the vagina
Pain in the lower abdomen
Pain or bleeding during or after sex
Bleeding between periods
In men, chlamydia can infect the urethra. Symptoms include:
Pain when urinating
Discharge from the penis
How is chlamydia Diagnosed?
Chlamydia cannot be diagnosed from a blood test.
A urine test can be used to screen men for chlamydia if they have no symptoms of the infection. This test is not as sensitive as a swab test and is not recommended for women.
Chlamydia is best diagnosed from swab tests, collected from the cervix in women or the urethra in men. Swabs can also be taken from the throat or rectum if there is a possibility of infection there.
How is chlamydia treated?
Chlamydia infection is treated with antibiotics, such as azithromycin (Zithromax) or doxycycline (Doryx).
Prevention of chlamydia
Use condoms and always practice safe sex.
Getting Tested.
