Chlamydia: Signs, remedies, and origins explained
Chlamydia, one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States, is a bacteria infection that can have serious consequences if left untreated. According to health experts, anyone who is sexually active and falls into certain high-risk categories should consider regular screening.
Chlamydia can be acquired through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex, genital contact, or sharing unwashed sex toys. It can also infect areas during anal sex or spread from the reproductive organs. The infection can be asymptomatic, meaning people may not know they are infected until complications arise.
For females, symptoms may include a discharge from the cervix, bleeding especially after sex, and frequent or painful urination. In males, symptoms may include a discharge from the penis, a burning sensation when urinating, pain and swelling in one or both testicles. However, often, the infection causes no symptoms at all.
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to severe long-term reproductive health problems. In women, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection that affects the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. PID is a leading cause of ongoing pelvic pain and can lead to infertility due to scarring or blockage of fallopian tubes. Untreated infection can also cause miscarriage, premature birth, and can be transmitted to the newborn during childbirth, resulting in eye infections or pneumonia in infants.
In men, untreated chlamydia can cause epididymitis, inflammation of the epididymis (the tube behind the testicles) which can lead to pain and, in rare cases, fertility issues. Although less commonly leading to infertility than in females, untreated infection may still impair male reproductive health.
To prevent chlamydia or reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to use condoms, limit the number of sexual partners, have a sexual relationship in which both partners are monogamous, have regular screening, and avoid sex until treatment of all partners is complete. It is essential to complete the whole course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully resolved.
If a person has a diagnosis of chlamydia, they should inform any partners they have had sexual contact within the previous 60 days so that they, too, can seek testing and treatment. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend retesting at least every 3 months after treatment, depending on the individual's risk factors.
In conclusion, early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing the long-term reproductive health problems associated with chlamydia, including infertility, chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and complications in pregnancy in women, and epididymitis and potential fertility impacts in men. Regular screening, safe sex practices, and open communication with sexual partners are key to maintaining good reproductive health.
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