Chlamydia

Overview

This is one of the most common sexually-transmitted diseases. It's a problem for men and women. Medication easily cures it, but most people who are infected don't realize they have it.

Causes

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection. Sexual contact with the penis, vagina, mouth or anus of an infected person spreads the disease. And, a mother can spread it to her baby during childbirth.

Symptoms

Chlamydia doesn't cause symptoms in most people. When it does, it can cause a discharge from the penis or vagina, and pain when urinating. An infection in the rectum can cause rectal pain, discharge and bleeding. And in some men, it causes pain and swelling in the testicles.

Complications

Chlamydia that is not treated can cause serious complications in women. The infection can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes. It can damage the reproductive system. It can cause abdominal pain, and it can make a woman unable to get pregnant. Most men don't have problems from chlamydia. Some do. In rare cases, it keeps men from fathering children. Left untreated, chlamydia raises your risk for an HIV infection.

Prevention and Treatment

You can prevent chlamydia by not having vaginal, anal or oral sex. If you do have sex, lower your risk by being in a long term relationship with an uninfected partner. And stay faithful to each other. Men should always use latex condoms. If you are infected, it can be treated with antibiotics. The medicine cures the infection and makes you less likely to get chlamydia in the future.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.