CHYLAMIDIA
STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) in the U.S. It is caused by the chlamydia trachomatis organism. The infection occurs inside the genitals or urinary tract in both men and women. It can also infect the anus or eyes.

How do I know if I have Chlamydia?

CHLAMYDIA MAY BE ASYMPTOMATIC, that is, there may be no symptoms at all. Most people learn that they may have chlamydia when informed by a responsible partner diagnosed with this infection. Sometimes symptoms may be mild. When symptoms appear, they can be similar to other STDs and include:

For men: itching and/or burning around the opening of the urethra, burning sensation upon urinating, and/or a discharge from the penis. Some infected men have no symptoms.

For women: the most common symptom is burning upon urination (most causes of which are not due to chlamydia). Also, women may have vaginal itching (most causes of which are not due to chlamydia), discharge from the vagina, persistent abdominal pain, bleeding between menstrual periods, and/or a low-grade fever. Most women have no symptoms.

Can Chlamydia be dangerous?

For women, one of the most serious complications of chlamydia is the increased risk of PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease). PID may also be asymptomatic or cause such symptoms as abdominal pain, back pain, pain with urination, odorous vaginal discharge, painful intercourse, fever, and a generalized feeling of illness. If PID is left untreated, a more serious generalized infection may result. Other complications, including sterility, can occur.

For men, chlamydial infections may spread to involve the male reproductive system, causing pain in the testes, scrotum and during ejaculations. Sterility can also result from severe, untreated infection.

How is Chlamydia diagnosed?

Chlamydia is diagnosed by medical examination of the infected areas. A swab specimen is obtained and sent to the laboratory for testing.

How is Chlamydia treated?

Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. It is important to complete the full treatment of antibiotics. Follow-up may be advised by your provider.