Chlamydia is a disease caused by a bacteria called chlamydia trachomatis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains that chlamydia is most often transmitted sexually. When chlamydia goes untreated it can increase a woman's risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Treatment consists of a prescription for an antibiotic. The NIH states that only about 30 percent of women with this type of infection will have symptoms.
Symptoms While Urinating
The chlamydia bacteria can cause a burning sensation when urinating. The burning is the result of the bacteria spreading to the urethra or causing inflammation in the vaginal tissues that spreads to the urethra.
Vaginal Symptoms
The vaginal tissues can become painful, as if irritated, during sexual intercourse. A female may notice some burning or bleeding after intercourse. The vagina and surrounding skin can become red and inflamed. An unusual discharge from the vagina is uncommon.
Rectal Symptoms
The NIH points out that rectal pain or discharge can occur with a chlamydia infection. This can result from the spread of the bacteria to the rectal area.
Progressive Symptoms
Chlamydia can cause lower abdominal pain as the infection persists. This can indicate an early symptom of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Other symptoms of PID include vaginal bleeding after sex, intermittent fever, tenderness in the pelvic area, chills, lack of appetite and nausea with or without vomiting. Vaginal discharge that may smell foul or have an abnormal color and texture, remains another common symptom of PID.
