Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact with an infected partner. It can infect various areas, including the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, urethra, eyes, and throat. Chlamydia is one of the most frequently reported bacterial STIs, affecting millions of individuals each year.
Chlamydia’s Silent Presence
Chlamydia is often called a “silent infection” because most infected people do not experience noticeable symptoms. This allows the infection to persist for extended periods—weeks, months, or even years—without the infected person being aware. During this time, the bacteria replicate and can be transmitted to sexual partners.
The absence of symptoms means individuals do not seek testing or treatment, contributing to widespread transmission. Even without outward signs, the bacteria can still cause internal damage to the reproductive system. Regular screening is important, especially for sexually active individuals, as it is the primary way to detect and address the infection early. An untreated infection can remain in the body for months to over a decade.
Consequences of Unidentified Infection
When chlamydia remains in a person’s system, it can lead to serious health complications. In women, untreated chlamydia can ascend from the cervix to the upper reproductive organs, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can result in chronic pelvic pain, scarring of the fallopian tubes, and increase the risk of tubal factor infertility and ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy, where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, is a life-threatening condition.
For men, untreated chlamydia can lead to epididymitis, an inflammation of the coiled tube at the back of the testicles that stores and carries sperm. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the testicles and may impact fertility. Both men and women can also develop reactive arthritis, a type of joint pain that can affect joints, eyes, and the urinary tract. An untreated chlamydia infection can also increase susceptibility to acquiring or transmitting HIV.
Identifying and Treating Chlamydia
Chlamydia is diagnosed through tests that detect Chlamydia trachomatis. Common diagnostic methods include urine and swab tests, which collect samples from the cervix, vagina, anus, or throat depending on the suspected site of infection. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are the most sensitive and preferred method for detection. Regular screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly women under 25 and those with new or multiple partners.
Once diagnosed, chlamydia is curable with antibiotics. Common treatments include a single dose of azithromycin or a seven-day course of doxycycline. It is important to complete the entire prescribed medication course, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared. Individuals undergoing treatment should abstain from sexual activity for at least seven days after starting medication or until the full course is completed to prevent reinfection and further transmission. All sexual partners from the last 60 days should also be tested and treated to prevent re-transmission.
Avoiding Reinfection
Preventing chlamydia reinfection involves consistent adherence to safer sexual practices. Using condoms correctly and consistently during vaginal, anal, and oral sex reduces the risk of transmission. Condoms create a barrier that prevents the exchange of bodily fluids containing the bacteria.
Regular STI testing is another important strategy, especially when engaging with new or multiple sexual partners. Open and honest communication with sexual partners about STI status and testing is also encouraged. Ensuring all partners receive treatment if diagnosed with chlamydia helps prevent re-transmission.