Chlamydia is a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). Many individuals experience no noticeable symptoms, but it can lead to infertility if left untreated.
How Chlamydia Can Lead to Infertility
Untreated chlamydia can damage the reproductive system in both sexes, impairing fertility. In women, the infection can ascend from the cervix to the upper reproductive tract, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
This inflammation can cause scar tissue to form within the fallopian tubes, a condition known as salpingitis. Scarring and blockages in these tubes prevent eggs from traveling from the ovaries to the uterus, leading to tubal factor infertility. PID also increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy, where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, which can be life-threatening.
In men, chlamydia can cause epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicles where sperm mature and are stored. This inflammation can result in scarring and obstruction of the sperm ducts, interfering with sperm transport. Chlamydia can also directly affect sperm quality, leading to a lower sperm count and reduced sperm motility, which contribute to male factor infertility. These damaging processes develop over time if the infection remains untreated.
Recognizing Chlamydia
Early detection of chlamydia is important to prevent long-term complications like infertility. Chlamydia often presents without any symptoms in both men and women, allowing the infection to spread and cause damage before it is noticed. If symptoms do occur, they may appear anywhere from one week to several months after exposure.
In women, common symptoms can include unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding after sex or between periods, a burning sensation during urination, or pain in the lower abdomen. Men may experience a white, cloudy, or watery discharge from the penis, a burning sensation during urination, or pain and swelling in one or both testicles. Other potential symptoms for both sexes, depending on the site of infection, include rectal pain, discharge, bleeding, or a sore throat.
Chlamydia is diagnosed through laboratory tests, such as a urine test or a swab from the cervix, vagina, urethra, throat, or anus. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are the most sensitive and preferred method for detecting the bacteria. Regular STI screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those under 25, to detect asymptomatic infections and prevent complications.
Treatment and Prevention
Chlamydia is a curable bacterial infection treated with antibiotics. Common antibiotics include doxycycline (a seven-day course) or azithromycin (a single dose). It is important to complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve or disappear, to ensure the infection is eradicated.
To prevent re-infection and further spread, sexual partners should also be tested and treated simultaneously. After completing treatment, it is advised to avoid all sexual activity for at least seven days. Re-testing after treatment, particularly for pregnant individuals, may be recommended to confirm the infection has cleared.
Preventing chlamydia involves adopting safe sexual practices. Consistent and correct use of condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex significantly reduces the risk of transmission. Regular STI testing, especially with new or multiple sexual partners, is also a preventative measure. Open communication with sexual partners about STI status and testing history supports reproductive health and helps prevent long-term complications like infertility.