Definition

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Sometimes, the disease goes unnoticed by sufferers because there are no symptoms in the genital area, such as pain or discharge from the vagina or penis.

Chlamydia more frequently affects young women, but it can also occur in men and women of various ages who are sexually active. Chlamydia is a treatable disease with a high cure rate. However, if the infection is not treated promptly, patients can experience serious health problems.

Chlamydia is the most commonly found bacterial sexually transmitted infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated about four million cases of chlamydia in 2018.

Read more: Sexually Infectious Infections - Definition, Cause And Risk Factors.

Causes

Chlamydia infection is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which spreads through sexual contact when vaginal fluid or semen containing the bacteria is transferred from one person to another. This bacterium can also be spread to newborn babies from infected pregnant mothers. There are several ways chlamydia can be spread:

• Sexual intercourse, when chlamydia bacteria are transferred from the penis to the vagina and vice versa
• Anal sex, when chlamydia bacteria are transferred from the penis to the rectum and vice versa
• Oral sex, when chlamydia bacteria are transferred from the mouth to the vagina, penis, or rectum and vice versa
• Sexual activities involving sex toys, when chlamydia bacteria are transferred from the toy to the mouth, penis, vagina, or rectum
• Contact from the genitals to the eyes, for example, when you touch the genitals of someone infected with chlamydia and then rub your eyes without washing your hands first

Chlamydia cannot be transmitted through:

• Kissing
• Sharing food or drinks
• Hugging or holding hands
• Using the same toilet as someone with chlamydia
• Breathing the same air as someone with chlamydia

Risk Factor

Risk factors that can increase the likelihood of contracting chlamydia include:

• Being sexually active before the age of 25
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Having sexual intercourse with a partner infected with chlamydia
• Inconsistent condom use
• A history of other sexually transmitted infections
• Being born to a mother who had chlamydia

Symptoms

The bacteria that cause chlamydia can infect the cervix, anus, and throat in women. In men, the bacteria can infect the urethra, anus, or throat.

Although it sometimes does not cause symptoms, you should be aware of chlamydia infection if you experience the following symptoms:

• White, yellowish, or gray discharge from the vagina or penis.
• Pus in the urine.
• Increased need to urinate.
• Pain or burning sensation during urination.
• Bleeding outside the menstrual cycle.
• Unusual pain during menstruation.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Itching or burning around the vagina or penis.
• Lower abdominal or rectal pain.
• Fever, chills.
• Discomfort, bleeding, or discharge from the rectum.
• Sore throat (only if chlamydia infects the throat).
• Redness, pain, and thick discharge from the eyes.

Diagnosis

Doctors will conduct a medical interview, physical examination, and additional tests if necessary to diagnose chlamydia infection.

Generally, doctors will ask about:

• Primary and accompanying symptoms
• How long you have been experiencing these symptoms
• Sexual history and behavior
• Previous medical history
• Treatment history
• Family medical history

The doctor will perform a physical examination of the genital area, anus, and mouth. The doctor may take a small sample of fluid from the genital area using a swab. This sample will then be examined in the laboratory to check for chlamydia bacteria or other microbes under a microscope. Additionally, the doctor may conduct other tests, such as a urine test, if necessary.

Read more: Complete Urine Examination - Definition, Indication And Examination Procedures.

Management

Since this disease is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics or antibacterial medications can be given to treat the bacteria. You may receive antibiotics that are taken in a single dose or antibiotics given over several days. All antibiotics must be taken as indicated and under the supervision of the treating doctor.

In most cases, the infection will clear up within one to two weeks. During treatment, it is recommended that you abstain from sexual intercourse. Additionally, you are advised to undergo chlamydia screening and other STI screenings with your sexual partner, even if they are not currently experiencing any symptoms or complaints.

After chlamydia is cured, it does not mean you will not get chlamydia again. Chlamydia infection can recur if you do not practice prevention and do not engage in healthy sexual practices.

Complications

If not treated properly, chlamydia can lead to several complications.

Pelvic Infection

Pelvic infection is an inflammation of the uterus and fallopian tubes (the tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus) in women, which can cause pelvic pain and fever. Severe infections may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. Pelvic infections can damage the fallopian tubes, eggs, uterus, and cervix.

Epididymitis

Chlamydia infection can cause inflammation or infection of the epididymis, the tube located next to the testicles. Symptoms of epididymitis include fever, pain in the scrotum, and swelling.

Prostatitis

Although rare, chlamydia bacteria can spread to the prostate gland in men. Prostatitis or infection of the prostate gland can cause lower back pain and pain around the genitals.

Newborn Infection

Chlamydia infection can be passed to newborns through the birth canal, causing pneumonia or serious eye infections.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tubes. If this happens, the pregnancy must be terminated to prevent life-threatening complications for the mother. Chlamydia infection can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Infertility

Chlamydia infection, even without causing any symptoms, can cause scarring and blockage of the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility in women.

Reactive Arthritis

Patients with chlamydia have a higher likelihood of developing reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter's syndrome. This condition affects the joints, eyes, and urethra.

Prevention

The surest way to prevent chlamydia is to abstain from sexual activity. Additionally, you can take the following measures to prevent chlamydia:

Using Condoms

Using condoms, both male and female, during every sexual activity can reduce the likelihood of contracting chlamydia.

Not Changing Sexual Partners

Having multiple sexual partners increases your risk of contracting chlamydia or other sexually transmitted infections.

Regular Screening

If you are sexually active, especially if you have multiple sexual partners, it is advisable to regularly check with healthcare providers for chlamydia screening and other sexually transmitted infections.

When to See a Doctor?

See a doctor immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms and have a history of sexual intercourse with multiple partners. You can consult with a nearby general practitioner. Regular STI screening is recommended if you frequently change partners, especially if you and your partner are planning a pregnancy. The sooner the disease is detected, the quicker you can receive treatment, reducing the risk of transmission to your baby.

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