Common STIs - Chlamydia

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Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in Australia, especially among young people.

Causes

A bacterium called Chlamydia Trachomatis. Chlamydia infects the neck of the womb (cervix) in women and the tube inside the penis (urethra) in men. Sometimes it can infect the throat and anus of either sex. If left untreated, Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women which can lead to chronic pain and/or the inability to get pregnant.

Symptoms

Women may have no signs or symptoms with Chlamydia. Sometimes there is an unusual vaginal fluid (discharge) or a burning sensation when urinating or vaginal bleeding after sex. Deep pain during vaginal sex may also be a sign of chlamydial infection in women.

Men may have no signs or symptoms either. There may be a white or clear fluid (discharge) from the penis and/or discomfort during urination.

How is it transmitted?

Chlamydia is easily spread during vaginal sex without the use of a condom. It can also be spread during oral or anal sex without the use of a condom.

Management

If noticed early, Chlamydia can be treated with a single dose of antibiotics. Advanced Chlamydia and PID in women may need longer courses of antibiotics.

Partners of people with Chlamydia also need to be treated to stop cross infection.

Prevention

• use condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex
• be sure partners have been tested for this infection before having unprotected sex
• if your partner has other sexual partners, you could get Chlamydia if you don't use condoms.

Sponsor

Department of Human Services

Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 9 Jun 2009