Chlamydia: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. While it often shows no symptoms, untreated chlamydia can lead to serious health problems, including infertility in women and complications in men.

The good news is that chlamydia is preventable, easily diagnosed, and treatable with antibiotics. In this article, we’ll cover its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that spreads through sexual contact. This includes vaginal, anal, or oral sex without protection. Both men and women can get chlamydia, and it can affect the genitals, rectum, and even the throat.

Because chlamydia often shows no signs, many people may not know they are infected—making regular testing important.

How Chlamydia Spreads

The main mode of transmission is through sexual contact. Some common ways include:

• Unprotected vaginal or anal sex

• Oral sex with an infected partner

• Sharing sex toys without proper cleaning

• From mother to baby during childbirth

Chlamydia cannot spread through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.

Symptoms of Chlamydia

Many people with chlamydia do not experience symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they usually develop within 1–3 weeks of infection.

In Women:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge

• Burning sensation during urination

• Pain during sex

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

• Bleeding between periods

In Men:

• Discharge from the penis

• Painful urination

• Swelling or pain in one or both testicles

In Both Genders:

• Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding (if infection is in the rectum)

• Sore throat (from oral infection)

Complications of Untreated Chlamydia

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious complications:

• In Women: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), infertility, ectopic pregnancy.

• In Men: Epididymitis (inflammation near the testicles), infertility in rare cases.

• In Newborns: Eye infections, pneumonia if passed during birth.

Diagnosis of Chlamydia

Testing is simple and painless. Common methods include:

• Urine test – sample of urine is tested for bacteria.

• Swab test – sample taken from the cervix, urethra, throat, or rectum.

Because chlamydia is often asymptomatic, doctors recommend routine testing, especially for sexually active individuals under 25.

Treatment of Chlamydia

Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. Common treatments include:

• Azithromycin – usually taken as a single dose.

• Doxycycline – taken twice daily for 7 days.

During treatment:

• Avoid sexual activity until treatment is completed.

• Ensure your partner is also tested and treated.

• Follow-up testing may be required to confirm the infection has cleared.

Preventing Chlamydia

Prevention is always better than cure. To lower the risk of infection:

• Use condoms correctly during sex.

• Limit the number of sexual partners.

• Get regular STI screenings.

• Communicate openly with partners about sexual health.

• Avoid sharing sex toys, or clean them properly between use.

Living with Chlamydia

Finding out you have chlamydia can feel overwhelming, but it is one of the most treatable STIs. With timely treatment and responsible sexual practices, you can recover fully and prevent future infections.

Final Thoughts

Chlamydia is a common but often silent infection. Since many people do not show symptoms, regular testing is the key to early detection. If you test positive, do not panic—antibiotics can cure chlamydia quickly and effectively. By practicing safe sex, getting screened, and encouraging partners to do the same, you can protect your health and the health of others.