Chlamydia is a very common sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomati. It is spread by having unprotected anal, oral or vaginal sex with an infected individual. Depending on the sexual activity, it can infect the urethra, cervix, the anal canal or the throat. Infection is of particular concern because often infected individuals do experience symptoms and prolonged infection can lead to infertility, particularly in women.
Most women and approximately half of all infected men do not get any symptoms. If symptoms do present it is usually 1-3 weeks after infection.
Women may experience pain when passing urine and / or notice an unusual vaginal discharge. They may also experience pain during vaginal intercourse.
Men may notice a discharge from their penis or a burning sensation when urinating. Men might also have burning and itching around the opening of the penis. Pain and swelling in the testicles could also occur but are uncommon.
Men or women who have receptive anal intercourse may acquire chlamydial infection in the rectum, which can cause rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding. Chlamydia can also be found in the throats of women and men having oral sex with an infected partner.
Testing for chlamydia is done via a simple urine test. Your doctor, upon consultation with you, can order this test. At Holdsworth House Medical Practice this test can be done confidentially on the day of your consultation. You are then required to return for follow up on the results within a week.
Chlamydia is easily treated with either a single dose or course of antibiotics. Sexual partners should be tested, even if they have no symptoms. Sex should be avoided for 7 days after treatment – if you can't do this then use a condom. If your symptoms continue even after receiving treatment please return to your doctor at Holdsworth House Medical Practice to be re-evaluated.
Even if you have had chlamydia in the past and were treated you can get the disease again if you have sex with someone who has it. This is why regular sexual health checks are a good idea because you may have chlamydia and not know it.
The best way to avoid contracting chlamydia is to practice safe sex and always use a condom with water-based lubricant during sexual intercourse.
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