Chlamydia

Chlamydia is an STI caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It is spread through sexual contact, may be present without symptoms (75-80% of women and 25-50% of men who have it are asymptomatic), and may have serious complications.

Symptoms:
-pain with intercourse on deep penetration
-lower abdominal pain
-burning when peeing
-bleeding after intercourse
-fever, other signs of illness

Testing and Diagnosis
-Cultures or “direct smears” – usually conducted by urinating into a cup

Prevention
-barrier methods reduce the risk of transmission
-limit the number of sexual partners
-monogamous relationships

Treatment
-Chlamydia is easily treatable with antibiotics. Visit a healthcare practitioner if you suspect you have been exposed.

Complications
-Left untreated, women may develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and between 10-50% of these women who develop PID will become sterile.