Chlamydia

What Is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia can cause an infection in the man's urethra (tube in the middle of his penis that goes to his bladder) and testicles (balls). If it gets very bad, it can cause an infection in other parts of his reproductive system.

Chlamydia can cause an infection in a woman's vagina and her urethra (tube that goes to her bladder). If it gets very bad, it can also cause infection in other parts of her reproductive system.

Women and men can get Chlamydia of the throat by having oral sex.

A simple and painless urine test can be done to find out if you have Chlamydia.

Symptoms

Most people do not have any signs of Chlamydia. That's why most people don't know they have it. The best way to find out if you have it is to have a test done.

A few people may have these signs:

  • A thick yellow or clear discharge from the penis or vagina
  • Pain or burning when they urinate (pee)
  • Pain during sex
  • For women, bleeding between periods and during or after sex

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Long-Term Effects

Chlamydia can be cured. But if you don't get treated, these things could happen:

  • You could pass it on to others.
  • You have a higher chance of getting HIV (the virus that causes AIDS).
  • The vagina or penis could hurt and swell.

A woman with untreated chlamydia could get an infection that causes scars in her uterus or in the tubes that carry her eggs. If this happens:

  • She could have a pregnancy in her tubes (ectopic pregnancy).
  • She could have pelvic pain and infection (PID).
  • She might become sterile (unable to get pregnant).

If a woman has chlamydia while she is pregnant, chlamydia could harm the baby's eyes or lungs during birth.

A man with untreated Chlamydia could get a bad infection that can cause scarring of the tubes that carry sperm. If this happens, he might not be able to children.

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Treatment

To cure Chlamydia:

  • You may take antibiotic medicine. You may take it in one dose. Or you may take pills for a week.
  • You and your partner(s) must get treated.
  • Take all of your pills, even if you feel better.
  • Do not have sex for at least one week after you start your treatment.

If you think you might be pregnant, be sure to tell your doctor before you get treated.

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