Chlamydia Overview

Chlamydia is currently one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States caused by an easily transmitted bacteria (Chlamydia trachomatis).Infection can present with no symptoms at all which is one factor in so many infected individuals continue to contaminate others. If Chlamydia infection symptoms are present the most common are burning sensation during urination and/or discharge. Rapid STI/STD screening-kits empower you to take proactive steps towards your sexual health, providing confidential and accurate results in the comfort of your own home.

 

1. What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It affects the genitals, rectum, and throat on infected parties. A Chlamydia infection is easily treated with antibiotics, but left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications.

2. How is Chlamydia Transmitted?

Chlamydia is primarily spread through:

• Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who is infected with the Chlamydia bacteria.

• From an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.

It's crucial to understand that you can contract Chlamydia even if your partner has no symptoms. In many individuals, an infection can be present even if previous symptoms have gone away or no symptoms were ever present. 

3. What are the common Symptoms of Chlamydia Infection?

Many people with Chlamydia experience no symptoms at all or they may be very minor and not enough for concern about an STI/STD.  This is why regular sexual health testing is essential. When symptoms of a Chlamydia infection do occur, they can include:

• In women: 

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge

  • Burning sensation during urination

  • Pelvic pain

  • Bleeding between periods

• In men: 

  • Discharge from the penis

  • Burning sensation during urination

  • Pain and swelling in one or both testicles

4. What are Possible Long-Term Complications?

Early detection is very important as untreated Chlamydia can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women: This can cause chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb), and infertility.

• Epididymitis in men: Inflammation of the tube that carries sperm, which can lead to infertility.

• Infertility in both men and women.

• Reactive arthritis: Joint pain and swelling triggered by an infection.

• Increased risk of contracting HIV.

Don't risk your future health. Early detection is key.

5. How is an Infection Detected?

Testing for a Chlamydia infection typically involves collecting a swab sample from a suspected infection site and testing it via reagents for the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis. These reagents react to the bacteria and produce a visible outcome. This can be done via a rapid screening test or it can be carried out in a STD clinic. The advantage of a rapid screening test which uses a simple swab or urine sample to deliver accurate results within minutes are:

• Fast: Get your results in the comfort of your own home.

• Reliable: Reliable results you can trust.

• Discreet and Confidential: Maintain your privacy.

• Easy to Use: No professional assistance required.

6. How is an Infection Treated?

Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. If your test results are positive, it is very important that you consult a doctor immediately and treat this condition. Even though the symptoms may go away by themselves the infection will not.

• Antibiotics: A course of antibiotics will clear the infection.

• Abstinence: Avoid sexual activity until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and are symptom-free.