Chlamydia trachomatis

Overview

Chlamydia is a common infection transmitted through sexual contact, also known as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. The lack of noticeable symptoms, such as genital discomfort or unusual genital discharge, means that individuals might be unaware of their chlamydia infection.

Chlamydia trachomatis primarily affects young women, although it can impact both genders and various age groups. Receiving treatment for chlamydia is crucial to avoid potential complications. If left untreated, the infection can result in severe consequences and permanent damage to your reproductive organs.

Symptoms

In the early stages, Chlamydia trachomatis infections often exhibit few symptoms. It spreads through sexual contact via genital fluids, even without penetration or ejaculation. Chlamydia can also infect the eyes, throat, or rectum depending on one’s sexual activity. Eye infections, referred to as conjunctivitis, result in redness and irritation of the eyelids. Throat infections may be asymptomatic or cause a sore throat. Rectal infections might manifest no symptoms or lead to pain, discharge, or bleeding.

Symptoms of Chlamydia trachomatis infection may include:

• Painful urination
• Vaginal discharge
• Penile discharge
• Painful intercourse (in women)
• Vaginal bleeding between periods and after sex
• Testicular pain

If you experience discharge from the vagina, penis, or rectum, or if urination is painful, it is advisable to consult a doctor. It is also important to see a doctor if your sexual partner is diagnosed with chlamydia. Your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics, even in the absence of symptoms.

Causes

Chlamydia trachomatis mainly spreads through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Babies born to mothers with chlamydia can also get it during birth, which can lead to lung problems or eye infections in the babies.

Risk factors

Factors that increase the chances of getting chlamydia are:

• Using condoms less.
• Not getting healthcare to prevent or treat sexual infections.
• Having sex with more than one person.
• Changing partners without knowing about chlamydia.

People who are younger than 25 have a bigger chance of getting chlamydia than older people. This is because younger people are more likely to have more than one of these things that increase the risk.