Chlamydia is a curable, sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomalis (NIAID). It can be contracted during oral, vaginal or anal sexual contact with an infected partner. The bacteria live in vaginal fluid or semen. Symptoms usually appear within one to three weeks of infection in the form of a discharge from the vagina. The infection may move inside the body if not treated and infect the cervix, fallopian tubes, and urinary canal. It can cause pelvic inflammatory disease. Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin for one day, or doxycycline for seven days, or erythromycin or ofloxacin. You must tell your sex partner if you have chlamydia so they can be tested and treated if necessary. You should not have sexual intercourse until your treatment is completed and successful.
The best way to avoid chlamydia infection is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a stable, monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is not infected (Chlamydia). The chances of infection can also be reduced if your sex partner always uses a latex condom every time you have sexual intercourse. It is recommended that healthy, sexually active women 25 years of age or younger have annual screenings for chlamydia. Older women with risk factors (a new sex partner or many sex partners) should also have annual screening for chlamydia. You should always see a health professional immediately if you experience symptoms.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Chlamydia. July 2004. 2 December 2004.
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