Chlamydia Symptoms: What to Look For and When to Seek Help

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but many people don’t realize they have it because it often shows no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can be easy to overlook or mistake for other conditions. Understanding the signs of chlamydia is crucial for protecting your health and preventing complications. Let’s break down what you need to know.

What Is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection. Because it’s so common and often asymptomatic, regular testing is essential, especially if you’re sexually active with multiple partners or have a new partner.

Common Symptoms of Chlamydia

While chlamydia is often called a “silent” infection, some people do experience symptoms. These can vary between men and women.

Symptoms in Women:

• Unusual vaginal discharge: This may be watery, milky, or have a slight odor.
• Pain during urination: A burning sensation when you pee.
• Pain during sex: Discomfort or bleeding during intercourse.
• Lower abdominal pain: This can feel like a dull ache or cramping.
• Bleeding between periods: Spotting or irregular bleeding.

Symptoms in Men:

• Discharge from the penis: This may be clear, white, or cloudy.
• Pain during urination: A burning or stinging sensation.
• Testicular pain or swelling: This can occur in one or both testicles.

Less Common Symptoms and Complications

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems. Here are some less common symptoms and complications to watch for:

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID):

• PID is a serious infection of the reproductive organs that can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, or ectopic pregnancy. Symptoms include fever, severe pelvic pain, and unusual vaginal discharge.

Reactive Arthritis:

• Some people develop joint pain, swelling, or redness, often in the knees, ankles, or feet. This is known as reactive arthritis and can occur weeks or months after the initial infection.

Fitz-Hugh-Curtis Syndrome:

• A rare complication where the infection spreads to the liver, causing pain in the upper right abdomen.

Infertility:

• Untreated chlamydia can scar the fallopian tubes in women or block the vas deferens in men, leading to difficulty conceiving.

How Chlamydia Spreads

Chlamydia spreads through:

• Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
• Sharing sex toys without proper cleaning.
• Mother-to-baby transmission during childbirth.

It’s important to note that chlamydia cannot spread through casual contact like hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, or if you’ve had unprotected sex with a new partner, it’s time to get tested. Even if you feel fine, regular STI screenings are a good idea if you’re sexually active.

Testing for Chlamydia:

• A simple urine test or swab from the affected area (vagina, cervix, penis, or rectum) can detect the infection.
• Many clinics offer confidential testing, and some even provide at-home test kits.

Treatment and Prevention

The good news? Chlamydia is curable with antibiotics. Here’s what you need to know:

Treatment:

• A single dose of antibiotics (like azithromycin) or a week-long course (like doxycycline) usually clears the infection.
• Avoid sexual activity until you and your partner have completed treatment to prevent reinfection.

Prevention:

• Use condoms or dental dams during sex.
• Get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple partners.
• Encourage your partner(s) to get tested as well.

Why Early Detection Matters

Catching chlamydia early can prevent long-term complications like infertility, chronic pain, and the spread of the infection to others. If you’re sexually active, make STI testing a regular part of your healthcare routine.

Conclusion

Chlamydia is a common but treatable infection. Knowing the symptoms, getting tested regularly, and practicing safe sex are the best ways to protect yourself and your partners. If you suspect you might have chlamydia, don’t wait—seek medical advice right away. Your health is worth it.