Chlamydia

Chlamydia (say "kluh-MID-ee-uh") is a bacterial infection spread through sexual contact. It usually infects the urethra or the cervix. If you treat chlamydia, it won't cause problems. But untreated, it can spread and lead to problems like trouble getting pregnant.

Many people don't have symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually appear 1 to 3 weeks after sexual contact with an infected person.

Symptoms may include:

• Abnormal discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus.
• Pain when you urinate.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Pain in the lower belly.
• Bleeding between periods or after intercourse.
• Fever and general tiredness.
• Pain and swelling of the glands at the opening of the vagina or pain in the scrotum.
• Conjunctivitis.

Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and your sexual history. You may also have a physical exam to look for signs of infection.

Several types of tests can diagnose chlamydia. Most tests use a sample of urine or a swab from the cervix, vagina, or rectum.

Chlamydia can cause serious problems but may not cause symptoms. That's why it's a good idea to get tested once a year if you are at higher risk for getting chlamydia. Talk to your doctor about what testing is right for you.

Antibiotics are used to treat chlamydia, for both you and any sex partners. If only one person takes the medicine, you may keep passing the infection back and forth. To make sure that the medicine works, you need to take all of the medicine as directed.

If you were prescribed antibiotics to take at home, take them as directed. Don't have sex with anyone while you're being treated. Make sure to tell your sex partner or partners that you have chlamydia. They should get treated, even if they don't have symptoms.