What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It affects both men and women, but it is more common among young individuals who frequently change sexual partners. Approximately 75% of cases in Australia occur in those under 30 years old.1 It is the most commonly reported STI in Australia, with 97,000 new diagnoses each year.2 If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as infertility and ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening.3
Symptoms of Chlamydia
Most people with chlamydia do not experience noticeable symptoms. Around 75% of women and 50% of men show no signs.4 When symptoms do appear, they usually arise within 7 to 14 days following unprotected sex. Symptoms differ between genders: For women, symptoms may include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding after sex
- Painful urination
- Lower abdominal pain5
For men, symptoms might include:
- Clear or milky discharge from the penis
- Redness around the penis opening
- Swollen testicles
- Pain or burning while urinating6
How Chlamydia Spreads
The bacteria that cause chlamydia thrive in fluids produced during sexual activity. It is transmitted through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone infected. The risk of contracting chlamydia from an infected person is 30% to 50% with unprotected sex.7 Even after successful treatment, it is possible to get infected again.
Diagnosis and Testing
Chlamydia is simple to diagnose through either a urine test or a swab from the vagina, cervix, penis, or anus. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Treatment for Chlamydia
If caught early, chlamydia is typically treated with a single dose of antibiotics. For complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a longer antibiotic course is required.8 After treatment, it is important to refrain from any sexual activity for 7 days to avoid reinfection. A follow-up test is recommended three months later to ensure no reinfection has occurred. Anyone who has had sexual contact with someone diagnosed with chlamydia in the last six months should be informed and tested. Both partners need treatment before resuming sexual activity.9
Complications of Untreated Chlamydia
If untreated, chlamydia can lead to severe complications, including:
- Infertility in men and women
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women
- Ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or premature birth
- Eye or lung infections in newborns
- Arthritis and skin rashes
- Inflammation in the eye or rectum10
When to See a Doctor
If you notice symptoms of chlamydia, seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications. Regular annual sexual health check-ups are recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those who change sexual partners frequently.11
Preventing Chlamydia
Several steps can help prevent chlamydia and other STIs:
- Use protection (condoms) every time during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Avoid sexual contact with someone infected until 7 days after treatment.
- Get regular tests for chlamydia, particularly if you are under 30 and sexually active.12