Chlamydia
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Chlamydia is a bacterial infection passed on by unprotected sexual contact. It can infect the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, urethra, rectum, testes, scrotum and less commonly the throat.
Symptoms
Symptoms mainly occur within 2-14 days of infection (but it may take as long as 21 days) and may include:
Women- abnormal vaginal or rectal discharge
- unusual bleeding (sometimes after intercourse)
- pelvic pain
- pain through intercourse or passing urine
Men
- a creamy discharge from the urethra
- stinging when urinating
- tickling along the shaft of the penis
Most commonly, however, there are no symptoms of Chlamydia – which is why it is important to have regular sexual health checks.
Treatment
- Chlamydia can be successfully treated with antibiotics
Prevention
- Using a condom and/or dental dam will reduce the risk of infection
- Regular sexual health checks
Note:
- If left undiagnosed, Chlamydia may lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can cause infertility.
This is only a brief overview and should not substitute for professional medical advice. The Melbourne Sexual Health Centre has information about Chlamydia here:
http://www.mshc.org.au/Portals/_default/uploads/fact_sheets/chlamydia_a4.pdf
More detailed information about Chlamydia is available from the Victorian Department of Human Service Public Health website:
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/ideas/diseases/chlam_facts
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/ideas/bluebook/chlamydia
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