What is Chlamydia? Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Duly Care
Jun 9
9 min read

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, affecting millions of individuals annually. Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, this infection often goes undetected due to its asymptomatic nature in many cases, posing risks to long-term reproductive and general health.

This guide explores what chlamydia is, its symptoms, causes, testing, treatment options, and preventive measures, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your sexual health.

Key Takeaways

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
It often shows no symptoms, making early detection challenging.
Left untreated, chlamydia can lead to severe complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased susceptibility to other infections.
Routine testing, prompt antibiotic treatment, and safe sexual practices, like using condoms and regular STI screenings, are essential to manage and prevent the spread of chlamydia.

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) globally, affecting millions of individuals each year.

Despite its prevalence, chlamydia often goes unnoticed because most people do not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages. This lack of noticeable signs makes routine testing crucial for early detection and treatment.

In addition to being sexually transmitted, chlamydia can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. This mode of transmission can lead to serious complications for newborns, such as pneumonia or conjunctivitis, both of which require immediate medical attention.

The infection is treatable with antibiotics, but without timely intervention, it can cause long-term health issues, including reproductive complications.

What causes Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacterium that specifically infects the epithelial cells lining the genital tract. Once inside the body, the bacteria multiply and trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

Risk Factors

Certain behaviours and characteristics can increase the risk of contracting chlamydia.

One of the most significant risk factors is engaging in unprotected sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex without the use of condoms or dental dams. Barrier protection significantly reduces the risk of transmission by preventing direct contact with infected bodily fluids.
Having multiple sexual partners is another key risk factor, as it increases the likelihood of exposure to someone carrying the infection. However, even individuals in monogamous relationships can be at risk if their partner has not been tested or treated for chlamydia.
Young people, particularly those under the age of 25, are disproportionately affected by chlamydia. This age group is at a higher risk due to a combination of biological factors, such as a less mature cervix in young women, and behavioural factors, such as inconsistent condom use.
Additionally, individuals with a history of other sexually transmitted infections are more likely to contract chlamydia. This may be due to shared risk behaviours or the increased susceptibility of inflamed or damaged tissue to bacterial infections.

Signs and Symptoms of Chlamydia

Although chlamydia often does not cause symptoms, when it does, the manifestations can vary depending on the individual and the site of infection. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for seeking timely medical advice.

Regardless of gender, chlamydia can infect areas beyond the genitals. Rectal infections, for example, can occur following unprotected anal sex. These infections may cause symptoms such as rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding, although they are often asymptomatic.

Similarly, if chlamydia is transmitted through oral sex, it may cause throat infections. These infections are usually mild and may go unnoticed, but they still play a role in the transmission of the disease.

In Women

Women with chlamydia may experience abnormal vaginal discharge, which is often accompanied by a strong, unpleasant odour. This discharge is caused by inflammation of the cervix or vaginal lining due to the bacterial infection.
Many women report pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, which may be a result of inflammation or cervical sensitivity.
Other symptoms include lower abdominal or pelvic pain, which can be indicative of the infection spreading to the upper genital tract, potentially leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
In some cases, women may notice unusual bleeding, either between their menstrual periods or after sexual activity.

In Men

For men, symptoms of chlamydia often involve the urinary or genital tract. Many report a white, cloudy, or watery discharge from the penis, which may be accompanied by a burning sensation during urination. These symptoms arise from the inflammation of the urethra caused by the bacterial infection.
In some instances, men may experience pain or swelling in one or both testicles. This could be a sign of epididymitis, a condition in which the infection affects the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm.

Testing for Chlamydia

Timely and accurate testing is crucial for identifying and managing chlamydia, especially given that the infection often presents no symptoms. Testing not only helps in diagnosing an existing infection but also plays a vital role in preventing its spread to others. Multiple methods are available, each tailored to specific needs and circumstances, ensuring effective and reliable results.

Types of Tests

Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs)
NAATs are the most commonly used and highly sensitive diagnostic tools for chlamydia. These tests detect the genetic material of Chlamydia trachomatis with exceptional accuracy, making them the gold standard for chlamydia testing.
NAATs can be performed using a urine sample or a swab taken from the genital area, including the cervix in women or the urethra in men. This flexibility ensures that NAATs are both non-invasive and effective, making them suitable for routine screenings and symptomatic individuals.
VDRL and TPHA Tests
While primarily used for diagnosing other sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, the VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and TPHA (Treponema pallidum hemagglutination) tests are often conducted alongside chlamydia tests. This approach helps doctors comprehensively screen for multiple STIs, as co-infections are not uncommon.
Swab Tests
For individuals experiencing symptoms or suspected exposure in non-genital areas, such as the rectum or throat, swab tests are particularly useful. A healthcare professional collects a sample from the affected area, which is then analysed to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis. These tests are essential for identifying rectal or oral infections that might otherwise go unnoticed.

When to Test

Regular testing is a cornerstone of sexual health, especially for those at higher risk of contracting chlamydia. Healthcare guidelines recommend the following:

Testing annually for sexually active individuals under 25: This group is at higher risk due to increased exposure and biological susceptibility.
Testing after a new sexual partner or unprotected sex: Prompt testing following these scenarios ensures early detection and minimises the risk of transmission.

Testing should also be prioritised if any symptoms arise or if a sexual partner has been diagnosed with an STI. Early testing and treatment are essential to prevent complications and the further spread of the infection.

Treatment Options for Chlamydia

Chlamydia is curable with the right antibiotics, making early diagnosis and adherence to prescribed treatment critical. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection, relieve symptoms, and prevent long-term complications such as infertility or chronic pelvic pain.

Commonly Prescribed Antibiotics

Azithromycin
Azithromycin is a highly effective antibiotic often prescribed as a single-dose treatment. This one-time regimen is convenient for patients and helps ensure adherence. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who may have difficulty following a multi-day treatment plan.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is another commonly used antibiotic, typically prescribed as a seven-day course. While it requires strict adherence to the dosing schedule, it is equally effective in treating chlamydia. This regimen may be preferred in certain cases, such as when treating co-infections or rectal chlamydia.

Important Considerations During Treatment

To ensure successful treatment and prevent reinfection, certain precautions must be followed:

Avoid sexual activity
It is essential to abstain from any form of sexual activity until the entire treatment course is completed and follow-up tests confirm the infection has cleared. Engaging in sexual activity too soon increases the risk of spreading the infection or becoming reinfected.
Test and treat all partners
Ensuring that all recent sexual partners are tested and treated is critical for breaking the cycle of reinfection. This step helps protect both the individual undergoing treatment and their partners.

Prompt follow-up with a doctor is recommended if symptoms persist after treatment or if reinfection is suspected.

Complications of Untreated Chlamydia

Chlamydia is often asymptomatic, which means it can silently progress without noticeable signs. If left untreated, this bacterial infection can cause a range of severe health issues, affecting not only the individual but also their sexual partners and, in the case of pregnant individuals, their newborns.

Understanding the potential complications underscores the importance of timely diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

In women, untreated chlamydia is a leading cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. PID can result in:

Chronic pelvic pain: Persistent discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen can significantly affect quality of life.
Ectopic pregnancy: Scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes caused by PID can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention.
Infertility: Severe damage to the reproductive organs, particularly the fallopian tubes, may make it difficult or impossible for a woman to conceive naturally.

These long-term consequences highlight the need for regular screenings and early treatment to protect reproductive health.

Neonatal Complications

Chlamydia poses significant risks during pregnancy and childbirth. If a pregnant individual has untreated chlamydia, the infection can be transmitted to the baby during delivery. This can result in:

Eye infections: Newborns may develop conjunctivitis (eye inflammation), leading to severe discomfort, swelling, and discharge if not treated promptly.
Pneumonia: In some cases, newborns exposed to chlamydia during birth may develop pneumonia, a serious lung infection requiring medical attention.

These complications emphasize the importance of prenatal care, including routine STI testing and treatment for pregnant individuals, to protect the health of both the parent and the baby.

Epididymitis

In men, untreated chlamydia can lead to epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis - a coiled tube located at the back of the testicles that stores and carries sperm. Symptoms of epididymitis include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the testicles, along with fever in some cases. If not treated promptly, epididymitis can cause permanent damage to the epididymis and surrounding tissues, potentially leading to infertility.

Increased Risk of HIV

Chlamydia infection can compromise the body's natural barriers and immune defences, making individuals more susceptible to contracting HIV. Infected individuals are also at a higher risk of transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. This increased vulnerability underscores the critical need for safe sexual practices and prompt STI management.

By addressing chlamydia promptly and effectively, individuals can avoid these severe complications, safeguarding their overall health and well-being.

How to Prevent Chlamydia

Preventing chlamydia requires a combination of safe sexual practices, regular testing, and open communication with partners. By adopting these strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting and spreading the infection.

Use Condoms

Consistent and correct use of condoms is one of the most effective ways to prevent chlamydia and other STIs. Condoms act as a physical barrier, preventing direct contact with infected bodily fluids. It is important to use condoms during all types of sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Get Tested Regularly

Routine STI screenings are essential for early detection and management of chlamydia. Regular testing ensures that asymptomatic infections are identified and treated promptly, reducing the risk of complications and transmission. Those in high-risk groups, such as sexually active individuals under 25 or those with multiple partners, should prioritize regular testing.

Limit Sexual Partners

Maintaining a mutually monogamous relationship, where both partners are tested and free of STIs, significantly reduces exposure risks. Limiting the number of sexual partners lowers the likelihood of encountering someone with an untreated infection.

Open Communication

Having honest and open conversations with sexual partners about STI testing and sexual health history is an essential preventive measure. Discussing these topics not only builds trust but also ensures mutual responsibility for maintaining sexual health.

Conclusion

Chlamydia is a silent but significant threat to sexual and reproductive health. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and preventive measures can help safeguard your health and well-being. Regular STI screenings, safe sexual practices, and prompt treatment are critical steps in combating this infection.

If you suspect exposure or are experiencing symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon do chlamydia symptoms appear after exposure?
Symptoms typically appear 1 to 3 weeks after exposure, but many individuals remain asymptomatic.
Can chlamydia go away on its own?
No, chlamydia requires treatment with antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent complications.
Is it possible to get reinfected with chlamydia after treatment?
Yes, reinfection can occur if exposed again. Partners should also be treated to avoid reinfection.
How is chlamydia in men treated?
Chlamydia in men is treated with antibiotics like doxycycline or azithromycin, and men should avoid sex until seven days after treatment is complete.
Can chlamydia affect pregnancy?
Yes, untreated chlamydia during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preterm labour, low birth weight, or neonatal infections.

Important

This blog, including its text, images, and infographics, is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalized advice, always consult a doctor.

References

Public Health England. Health promotion for sexual and reproductive health and HIV Strategic action plan, 2016 to 2019. Accessed on 6 January 2025. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a808262ed915d74e622eddc/SRHandHIVStrategicPlan_211215.pdf
American Family Physician. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention. Accessed on 6 January 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31524362/
US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Chlamydia : CDC fact sheet. Accessed on 6 January 2025. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis/
World Health Organisation. Chlamydia. 2024. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chlamydia
Morbidity and mortality weekly report. Recommendations and reports. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2015. 2015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26042815/