Chlamydia
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Chlamydia infection is a common bacterial infection in the US, with the highest rate among people aged 24 or younger. It is curable when treated with antibiotics. Chlamydia is often called the "silent infection" because many infected individuals do not experience any symptoms; early detection and treatment are important to prevent progression and avoid spreading to others.
Symptoms
In men, symptoms may include:
- •Painful urination
- •Burning and itching at the tip of the penis
- •Pain and swelling around the testicles
In women, symptoms may include:
- •Abnormal vaginal discharge
- •Bleeding between periods
- •Painful periods
- •Abdominal pain with fever
- •Pain during sex
- •Itching or burning in or around the vagina
- •Painful urination
Maternal and Newborn Health Risks
- •Preterm labor
- •Premature membrane rupture
- •Low birth weight and eye and lung infections in the newborn
Treatment
Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. People must take the full course of medication and abstain from sex until treatment is complete and symptoms have resolved; sexual partners should also be tested and treated.
Prevention
Practicing safer sex—using condoms correctly and consistently during oral, anal and vaginal sex—and regular testing for sexually active people with multiple partners helps prevent chlamydia, even when there are no symptoms.
Sources
- Written by Love Hurts, Inc. and Kecia Gaither, MD (March 31, 2024)
- CDC: “Chlamydia -- CDC Fact Sheet.”
- Mayo Clinic: “Chlamydia trachomatis.”
- WebMD: “Chlamydia”
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