Chlamydia (STD)

Chlamydia is one of the most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted diseases. It is caused by the chlamydia trachomatis bacterium. It infects the urethra, rectum and eyes in both sexes, and the cervix in women. If left untreated, long-term infection can lead to fertility problems in women. Chlamydia is transmitted through genital contact and/or sexual intercourse with someone already infected. Symptoms of chlamydia usually show between 1 and 3 weeks after exposure but may not emerge until much later.Chlamydia is known as the ‘silent’ disease as in many people it produces no symptoms. It is estimated that 70-75% of women infected with chlamydia are asymptomatic (have no symptoms) and a significant proportion of men also have no symptoms. Those who do have symptoms of chlamydia may experience:

Women:

• An increase in vaginal discharge caused by an inflamed cervix;
• The need to urinate more frequently, or pain while passing urine;
• Pain during sexual intercourse or bleeding after sex;
• Lower abdominal pains;
• Irregular menstrual bleeding.

Men:

• A white/cloudy and watery discharge from the penis that may stain underwear;
• A burning sensation and/or pain when passing urine;
• Pain and swelling in the testicles.

How is Chlamydia passed on?

• By having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who is infected;
• From a mother to her baby during vaginal childbirth;
• By transferring the infection on fingers from the genitals to the eyes, although it is rare for this to happen.