Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. While often associated with genital infections, this bacterium can also infect the throat, leading to oral chlamydia.
Understanding Oral Chlamydia
Oral chlamydia infects the throat and is caused by the same Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium responsible for genital and anal infections. This infection typically spreads through unprotected oral sex, occurring when the mouth comes into contact with the genitals or anus of a partner who has chlamydia. For instance, giving oral sex to someone with a genital chlamydia infection can transmit the bacteria to the throat.
Chlamydia bacteria more readily infect genital and anal areas compared to the mouth. Despite this, oral sex is not a completely safe alternative to other forms of sexual activity in terms of STI transmission. The infection can also be transmitted from the throat to other body parts if contact occurs.
Recognizing Symptoms and Getting Tested
Oral chlamydia is frequently asymptomatic. Many individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms, making detection difficult without testing. If symptoms do appear, they typically manifest between one to three weeks after exposure. These can include a sore throat, redness in the mouth or throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, difficulty swallowing, a persistent cough, or a mild fever. White spots or sores around the lips can also occur.
Since symptoms are often absent or can be mistaken for common ailments like a cold or strep throat, testing is important for diagnosis. Regular STI screenings are advisable, particularly for sexually active individuals. Diagnosing oral chlamydia involves a throat swab test. This swab is sent to a laboratory to detect the presence of the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. A throat swab is necessary for detecting the infection in the throat, unlike urine samples used for genital chlamydia.
Treatment and Preventing Spread
Oral chlamydia is a treatable infection, with the primary method of treatment involving antibiotics. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include doxycycline, typically taken twice a day for seven days, or azithromycin, often administered as a single oral dose. Doxycycline is highly effective for various chlamydia infections, including those in the oropharyngeal area. It is crucial to complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve or disappear. This ensures the infection is fully eradicated and reduces the risk of recurrence or antibiotic resistance.
During treatment, abstain from all sexual activity to prevent reinfection and avoid spreading the bacteria. After completing the antibiotic course, it is advisable to get retested to confirm the infection has cleared. Preventing the spread of oral chlamydia involves practicing safer sex. Using barrier methods such as condoms for oral-penile sex and dental dams for oral-vaginal or oral-anal contact significantly reduces transmission risk. Open communication with sexual partners about STI status and regular screenings are also important steps in preventing the spread of chlamydia and other STIs.