Chlamydia

Most frequently reported STD in the United States

Approximately 3 million American men and women are infected each year

Common STD caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.

Reproductive Organs Affected

Women

• Cervix and can spread to the urethra, fallopian tubes, and ovaries
• It can cause bladder infections and serious pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and sterility

Men

• Infects the urethra and may spread to the testicles, causing epididymitis which can cause sterility

Transmission

• Transmitted through sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal, or oral) with an infected partner.
• Can be passed from an infected mother to baby during vaginal childbirth.

Signs/Symptoms

Known as a ‘silent’ disease because approximately 75% of women and 50% of men have no symptoms or very mild symptoms

If symptoms do occur they usually appear 1 to 3 weeks (5 to 21 days) after exposure.

Common Symptoms (if they occur):

• Discharge from the penis or vagina
• Pain or burning while urinating, frequent urination
• Excessive vaginal bleeding
• Painful intercourse for women
• Spotting between periods or after intercourse
• Abdominal pain, nausea, fever
• Inflammation of the rectum or cervix
• Swelling or pain in the testicles

Treatment

• Chlamydia can be cured by treating both partners with antibiotics
• It is important to notify all sexual partners and encourage them to get treated at the same time to avoid re-infection

Prevention

• The best way to avoid contracting Chlamydia is abstaining from sexual contact
• Using latex condoms can reduce the transmission of Chlamydia