Chlamydia {cla/MID/ee/a} is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium.
Chlamydia can cause an infection in the cervix, rectum, urethra, throat, or eye.
It is one of the most common STIs found in sexually active teens and young adults.
How do you get Chlamydia?
Having unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with a person who has Chlamydia.
Having close sexual contact, even without sexual intercourse or ejaculation.
From an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
How do I know if I have Chlamydia?
Symptoms can appear 2 days to 6 weeks after unprotected sexual contact with an infected person. You may never have any symptoms. This means that you may not be able to find out how long you have had the infection for.
Symptoms in Women
Most women have no symptoms
Unusual discharge from the vagina
Vaginal bleeding/spotting between periods
Bleeding or pain during or after sex
Abdominal or lower back pain
Burning feeling when urinating (going to the bathroom)
Sometimes, eye or rectal infection
Symptoms in Men
Most men have no symptoms
Watery or milky discharge from the penis
Pain or swelling of the testicles
Itching inside of the penis
Burning when urinating.
Sometimes, eye or rectal infection
How do I get tested?
A swab may be taken from the cervix, urethra, or rectum.
A urine test can sometimes be done.
Remember: A Pap test does not test for an STI.
How is Chlamydia treated?
Chlamydia can be cured with the right medication, taken by mouth.
Tell all the sexual partner(s) you have had in the last 60 days so that they can be treated.
Do not have sexual contact for 7 days after both you and your partner have finished the medication.
You can be re-infected right after a treatment.
What if I do not treat the infection?
Women can develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID is a painful lower abdominal infection that can lead to sterility. You may have trouble getting pregnant or you may have problems during your pregnancy.
Mothers can pass Chlamydia to their babies during childbirth, causing eye infections or pneumonia.
Men can get serious infections in the prostate gland, urethra, and testicles, which can also lead to infertility.
Other symptoms may be rashes, sores, and joint pain.
The infection also increases the chance of becoming infected with HIV or spreading it.
How can I prevent the spread of Chlamydia?
Abstinence (not having sex) may be your best choice.
If you are being treated, do not have sex until 7 days after the medication is finished and the symptoms are gone.
Practice "Safer Sex". Always use condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Use a dental dam during oral sex on women.
Do not share sex toys.
Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
Ask your partners about their sexual history.
Get tested for STI before having any sexual activity with a new partner.
If you think you have been infected with an STI, see a healthcare provider.
Do not have sex with an infected person. You cannot tell just by looking at someone.
Tell your partner if you have an infection.
Get education, guidance, and support.
Sexual Decision Making
You have the right to choose whether or not to have intercourse.
If you choose to have sex, be sure to protect yourself against pregnancy and STI.
Talk to your partner about these choices before you have sex!
Copyright & Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. If you have specific questions, please consult your doctor or appropriate health care professional.
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