Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection, caused by a bacteria. Chlamydia is mostly asymptomatic; it’s not always accompanied by symptoms. But if left untreated, it can result to a serious complication. It’s estimated that 40 to 96 of people with chlamydia have no symptoms. But chlamydia can still cause health problems, in the long run.

CAUSES OF CHLAMYDIA:

Chlamydia is caused by a specific strain of bacteria known as Chlamydia trachomatis. It could be transmitted through vaginal discharge, semen, and can be transmitted through genital contact or oral, vaginal, or anal sex without a barrier method, like a condom.

Chlamydia is more common in women than in men. In fact, it’s estimated that the overall rate of infection is two times higher for women than men.

Some factors that predispose a person to Chlamydia infection may include not using barrier methods like condoms consistently with new sexual partners
having a sexual partner who is having sex with other people having a history of chlamydia or other STIs.

What are the symptoms of Chlamydia

While Chlamydia is regarded and treated as a silent infection because the carriers don’t have an idea they have it, because they don’t experience any symptoms.

Symptoms of chlamydia may be similar to symptoms of other STIs. And may generally include:Pain, Burning sensation when urinating, Abnormal discharge from the Penis/Vagina.

Chlamydia symptoms in Men include:

1. Pain in the lower abdomen
2. Yellow/green discharge from the Penis
3. Pain in the Testicle

Chlamydia symptoms in Women:
1. painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
2. vaginal discharge
3. burning sensation during urination
4. pain in the lower abdomen
5. inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis)
6. bleeding between periods

It is worthy of mention that Chlamydia can infect the anus, through oral sex. Having oral sex with someone who has the infection raises the risk of getting chlamydia. Symptoms mayinclude a sore throat, cough, or fever. It’s also possible to carry bacteria in the throat and not know it. More so, women can develop a throat infection if they have oral sex with someone with the infection. Arguably, symptoms of STIs in men and women is important so it’s paramount to speak with healthcare providers if you experience any of the above symptoms.

YOU CAN REDUCE YOUR RISK OF GETTING CHLAMYDIA. HOW?

Abstinence. This is the only guaranteed way to prevent chlamydia. Even though there are other ways to reduce your risk which are
1.Using barrier methods
2. Getting screened
3. Communication with your sexual partner
4. Avoid sharing sex toys.

Take away: Chlamydia is easy to treat and can be cured since it’s bacterial in nature. A healthcare should prescribe antibiotics. No matter which antibiotic is prescribed, dosage instructions should be followed carefully. During the treatment time, it’s important not to have sex. It’s still possible to transmit and contract chlamydia if exposed again, even if you’ve treated a previous infection.

Visit the hospital if you have any health worries, do not self medicate.

Till I write you again,
Adaora.