Chlamydia- A Dangerous Sexually Transmitted Disease

Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 4:20
Pleasure, Sexual Health
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Chlamydia is perhaps the most common bacterial infection in the United States that is known to be caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. Statistics reveal that 3-4 million Americans are afflicted by this organism each year.

Chlamydia tends to afflict almost 10% of all sexually active women and men with the highest rates occurring in individuals falling in the age group of 18-24.

Both men and women are equally susceptible to Chlamydia, but the disease poses a greater threat to women in terms of complications and consequences. If the disease is not treated on time it may result in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which may eventually cause infertility. Chlamydia is also known to increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy in women.

In men, this disease can cause epididymitis or inflammation of the ducts that carry sperm and inflammation of the urethra. Both men and women may not experience any symptoms when infected which makes the early detection of the disease difficult.

Infected mothers can pass on the infection to their babies during delivery which may result in pneumonia or eye infections in newborns.

Symptoms of Chlamydia:

Symptoms usually begin within 5 days of being infected. But most individuals experience few or no symptoms which makes them carriers for uninfected partners.

Symptoms in men include watery discharge from the penis, painful urination and pain around the testicles. In women the symptoms of Chlamydia include burning sensation while urination, pain in the lower abdomen, increased vaginal discharge and pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse.

How is Chlamydia diagnosed?

If your cervix is inflamed and swollen and tends to bleed easily, you might have contracted Chlamydia. Laboratory tests are available to detect Chlamydia antigens. Most cases of Chlamydia are diagnosed through Pap test screening. In addition to this, your doctor might recommend a tissue culture test or ELISA- enzyme linked immunosorbent assay to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment and prevention for Chlamydia:

Treatment options include the intake of antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline and erythromycin. You can prevent infection by Chlamydia by using barrier contraceptives such as condoms and diaphragms while having sexual intercourse. Cervical caps and spermicides may also offer protection. Avoid having sexual intercourse when under treatment for Chlamydia.