What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium
Chlamydia trachomatis. It primarily affects the genital tract but can also infect the rectum and throat. It is one of the most frequently reported bacterial STIs worldwide.
Burning sensation during urination
Abnormal genital discharge
Painful sexual intercourse
Bleeding between periods or after sex in women
Testicular pain in men
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause
infertility and chronic pelvic pain
Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
Prostatitis and epididymitis in men, which can also result in infertility
Increased susceptibility to other STIs, including
HIV How is Chlamydia Treated?
Chlamydia is typically treated with
antibiotics. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics are azithromycin (a single-dose regimen) and doxycycline (a seven-day course). It is crucial for sexual partners to be treated simultaneously to prevent
reinfection.
Using
condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity
Regular STI screening, especially for sexually active individuals under 25 and those with new or multiple partners
Limiting the number of sexual partners
Abstinence or maintaining a mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner
What is the Public Health Impact of Chlamydia?
Chlamydia poses a significant public health challenge due to its high prevalence and potential for severe complications if untreated. It is essential to increase awareness, promote regular screening, and ensure effective treatment and follow-up to reduce the burden of this infection.
