Chlamydial infections are sexually transmitted infections caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
The name derives from the ancient Greek word “chlamys” (meaning “cloak” or “mantle”) due to its shape, as it resembles a cloak surrounding the nucleus of the infected cell.
These infections tend to affect young individuals more frequently, particularly those with an active sexual life and multiple partners.
Although chlamydial infections can be treated with antimicrobial therapy, many cases remain undiagnosed due to the high percentage of asymptomatic patients (70% of women and over 50% of men).
Chlamydia infection is transmitted through sexual contact (oral, vaginal, anal) when one person is a carrier of the bacteria. Also, a mother infected with chlamydia can transmit it to the fetus during normal childbirth.
Chlamydia in women causes cervicitis, salpingitis, urinary tract infection, infection of the inside of the uterus and often infection of the entire inside of the lower abdomen (pelvic infection). In men, it causes urethritis and can spread to the testicles. In fact, if not diagnosed early, it can cause prostatitis, or even sterilization.
More than 70% of women and 50% of men with chlamydia infection do not have symptoms when they are infected. Infection in the anus and throat usually does not have symptoms.
The most common symptoms in women are:
- change in the color or odor or amount of vaginal discharge
- bleeding between periods or heavier periods
- bleeding after sex
- burning sensation during urination
- pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
The most common symptoms in men are:
- burning sensation during urination
- urethral discharge
- pain or discomfort in the testicles.
To diagnose a chlamydial infection, laboratory testing is necessary using a sample from the genital area. In some cases, a urine test may also be helpful.
If you believe you have been in contact with someone infected with chlamydia or other infections, or if you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to chlamydial infection, you should consult your dermatologist–venereologist.
Chlamydial infection is treatable with antibiotic therapy. However, it should be noted that if left untreated, the infection can lead to serious complications in the human body.
You should avoid all types of sexual contact, even with the use of a condom, until both you and your partner have completed treatment and your symptoms have disappeared.
If you have been diagnosed with chlamydia infection, it is important to inform your current partner, as well as all partners in the last 2 months, so that they can be tested and receive appropriate treatment. This will help prevent you from becoming reinfected, and your partners from developing complications of the disease.