Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the UK and one of the most straightforward to treat. It is caused by a bacterium called chlamydia trachomatis, commonly found in vaginal and seminal fluid. Chlamydia is passed on through all forms of sexual activity including sharing sex toys. The bacterium lives inside the cells of the urethra, cervix and rectum and may also live inside the cells of the eyes and throat.
It is reported as being most often seen in women of 16-19 years of age and a slightly older group of men (20-24 years). Having said that, Chlamydia can affect all ages and the age categories mentioned here are only those that relate to the highest levels of prevalence. A change in or multiple sexual partners, concurrent infection with other sexually transmitted infections, and reported non-use of barrier contraception are linked with this infection.
The major challenge is that in more than 50% of infected men and up to 90% of women, chlamydia is asymptomatic; it is possible to have had chlamydia for months or possibly years and not know about it without testing. Awareness of infection is therefore low, hence the high transmission rates. If left untreated, chlamydia infections can develop into serious reproductive and general health problems. Chlamydia can lead to testicular inflammation which may impair fertility in men and pelvic inflammatory disease, a risk of ectopic pregnancy and potential infertility in women. Chlamydia can also be passed to a baby during childbirth and may cause conjunctivitis and pneumonia.
Women may experience symptoms of stinging or pain on urination, a mucus-like or milky vaginal discharge, non-specific lower abdominal pain, bleeding between menstrual periods or after intercourse. Spread to the fallopian tubes can give rise to lower abdominal pain, low back pain and nausea.
Men may also experience a burning sensation on urination, penile soreness or discharge along with swelling or pain in the testicles, although these symptoms are less common.
Both women and men may experience fever. Symptoms usually occur within a month after infection if they are going to but many remain asymptomatic.
Testing is straightforward, it may not always require an examination. Normally a self-administered swab (like a cotton bud) or urine test can be done. Current and previous partners (within the last six months) should be tested and treatment is vital to prevent reinfection, abstinence from sexual intercourse should be observed during treatment and for the following week after treatment is complete.
Chlamydia infection is straightforward to treat with antibiotic treatment, which is effective in almost all cases, either by a single dose or course of antibiotics. A single 1g tablet of azithromycin is the routine treatment or doxycyline, a 100mg tablet which is taken twice a day for seven days. It is important to always complete the full course of prescribed treatment.