Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted by vaginal, anal, or oral sex. In the United States, chlamydia infections are the most reported STI infections. Cases of chlamydia are particularly common amongst those ages 15-29.

Common Symptoms

Most women who contract Chlamydia (75%) and about half of men do not have symptoms. Presentation of symptoms varies due to anatomical difference.

Penile chlamydia infections cause symptoms about 50% of the time. Common symptoms include:

  • Burning or pain when urinating

  • Unusual discharge

  • Occasionally, swelling of the testicles

Vaginal chlamydia infections cause symptoms only about 25% of the time. When symptoms are present, they may include:

  • Burning or pain when urinating

  • Unusual discharge

Rectal chlamydia infections often do not cause any symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include:

  • Bleeding and/or discharge

  • Pain in the rectum

Prevention and Treatment

If you are sexually active, you can prevent chlamydia by using condoms and dental dams correctly and consistently. Left untreated, vaginal chlamydia infections can eventually cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and fertility issues.

Like a urinary tract infection, chlamydia can be completely cured by a round of antibiotics. If you are prescribed antibiotics, it is always important to take the full course of medicine. Otherwise, the infection could return.

If you are sexually active, it is important that you get tested regularly for STIs including chlamydia, even if you do not have any symptoms.

Partner Notification

If you test positive for chlamydia, it is important that you notify previous sexual partners so that they can get tested, too.

Courtesy of University Health Services, The University of Texas at Austin.
Published by the University of Texas at Austin University Health Services.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
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