Chlamydia

In this factsheet:
• The Facts on Chlamydia
• Causes of Chlamydia
• Symptoms and Complications of Chlamydia
• Diagnosing Chlamydia
• Treating and Preventing Chlamydia

Diagnosing Chlamydia

A doctor may use a cotton swab to collect bacteria samples from the cervix, rectum, or urethra. A first morning urine sample may also be taken. These may be sent to a lab and checked for the presence of chlamydia.

Since this infection might not have symptoms, your sexual partner(s) could also be infected and should be seen by a doctor in order to also be tested.

Treating and Preventing Chlamydia

Chlamydia can be cured easily and quickly, often with a single dose of oral medication (pills). Despite the ease of treatment, thousands of people suffer serious complications each year such as infertility and chronic pain either because they had no symptoms or failed to recognize them until it was too late. Don't wait for symptoms to develop - have routine check-ups. Be aware that the risk of acquiring chlamydia increases with the number of sexual partners.

Since chlamydia infection can occur without symptoms, it's possible to unknowingly transmit this infection to others, or to get it from someone who doesn't know they have it. Women are more likely to be unaware they have chlamydia. Condoms help decrease the chance of transmission and should be used from the beginning to the end of sex.

Chlamydia in men, women, and babies is treated with various antibiotics. The exact choice depends on the person and the extent of infection.

Even if symptoms aren't obvious, or if they disappear quickly, you should finish any course of antibiotics for the full length of time prescribed. If symptoms don't go away within 1 to 2 weeks of completing treatment, see your doctor again. 3 to 4 weeks following the end of treatment, your doctor may want to see you again to make sure the infection is cured even if you are feeling well.

While undergoing treatment, and for at least 1 week after your last dose, you should avoid having sex.

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This condition and disease information is written and reviewed by the MedBroadcast Clinical Team.