Chlamydia: Common, Stealthy, and Treatable

By Lauren Means

Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is a prevalent and treatable infection. It ranks as the most frequently reported sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. According to 2022 data, approximately 1.6 million cases were reported.

Chlamydia can spread through oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, even if full penetration does not occur. Additionally, eye infections can result from exposure to the bacteria through sexual activity or hand-to-eye contact, as discharge can carry the infection into the eye.

The symptoms of chlamydia closely resemble those of gonorrhea, leading to frequent confusion between the two infections. Additionally, the majority of women and around half of men do not exhibit any symptoms. Consequently, many infected individuals remain unaware of their condition solely based on symptoms.

When symptoms do manifest, they typically appear within one to three weeks following exposure to chlamydia.

If a person does have symptoms, they may include:

• Proctitis (inflamed rectum), urethritis (inflamed urethra) and conjunctivitis (inflamed eyelid)
• Soreness and redness in the throat or mouth (for chlamydia infection of the throat)
• vaginal discharge
• pain or burning sensation during urination
• pus (thick yellow-white fluid) or watery or milky discharge from the penis
• pain or swelling of the testicles

Because chlamydia is very common and so often has no symptoms, anyone who is sexually active should think about being tested.

There are antibiotic treatments that are effective in treating chlamydia and your health care provider will decide the best course of treatment. When being tested and treated, all partners should also be examined and treated. The infected person should not have sex until they and any partner or partners have been treated and cured. People who show symptoms after treatment should be tested again. It is important to complete all medications as prescribed.

While chlamydia is easily treatable and curable, its potential danger should not be underestimated. Untreated chlamydia can lead to severe complications if left undiagnosed.

You should consult with your healthcare provider to determine if testing for chlamydia is right for you and if other STIs should be included in testing.