A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.
Click 'Topic Index' to return to the index for the current topic.
Click 'Library Index' to return to the listing of all topics.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI). An STI is also called a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Most people don't have symptoms. Because of this, chlamydia may not be noticed until it's passed to someone else or it causes severe problems. Left untreated, this infection may make it hard or impossible for women and men to have children.
Symptoms
Many people with chlamydia have no symptoms. Women are more likely than men not to have symptoms.
If symptoms show up in women, they include:
If symptoms show up in men, they include:
-
Clear discharge (drip) from the penis
-
Pain or burning during urination
-
Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding, especially in men who have sex with men
These symptoms usually disappear after a few weeks, with or without treatment. But if you are not treated, the chlamydia will still be present. It can cause long-term problems.
Potential problems
If the infection is not treated, it can lead to more serious health problems. In women, this can be pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can make it hard or even impossible for a women to have a baby. It can also cause an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy. This type of pregnancy can't be carried to term. Symptoms of PID include fever, pain during sex, and pain in the belly. In men, an untreated chlamydia infection can damage the testes. This can cause pain and scarring. This can possibly affect the ability to have children. Chlamydia of the rectal area can cause serious damage. This includes infection and holes (fistulas).
Sexually active women and men should get checked for chlamydia regularly. This can help prevent PID.
Treatment
Chlamydia can be treated when found early. It can be cured with antibiotics. If you have it, tell your partner right away. Because people often don’t have symptoms, those diagnosed with chlamydia should ask their partners to get tested.
Prevention
Know your partner’s history. Protect yourself by using a latex condom whenever you have sex. If you are pregnant, take extra care to get correct treatment. Pregnant women with untreated chlamydia can pass the infection on to the baby. This can cause eye, ear, or lung problems in the baby. There is also the risk of a premature delivery.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Barry Zingman MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
L Renee Watson MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2018
© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.