According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2006 there were over one million chlamydia infections reported. Unfortunately, this does not take into account the numbers of people with chlamydia that were not diagnosed. Chlamydia is transmitted through vaginal, oral or anal sex. It can also be passed to a child from an infected mother during childbirth. It's important to talk with your doctor about getting tested if you think you have put yourself at risk for chlamydia.
Silent symptoms
You cannot tell if your partner has chlamydia. In many cases, there are no symptoms. Three fourths of women and half of men never get symptoms after being infected with the disease. Chlamydia can be prevented by by using a condom during sex.
Discharge
If you are a female, you might notice an abnormal discharge or burning with urination. Discharge in women occurs because of inflammation of the cervix. Some people report pain during sex. If you are a male, you might have an abnormal discharge that is white or cloudy from your penis, burning with urination or experience pain while having sex.
Pain
Chlamydia can be painful. You might have lower abdominal pain or back pain. And, according to the CDC, males might have burning or irritation around the opening of the penis.
Rectal Discharge
It is possible for a chlamydia infection to travel to the rectal area. Some people may experience discharge, bleeding or pain in the rectum.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
When a chlamydia infection affects the pelvis, fallopian tubes, uterus or ovaries, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in a female. Symptoms of PID include pain in the lower abdomen or back, cramping, irregular bleeding, discharge from the vagina, nausea, not having a regular period and painful urination. This is a serious condition that must be treated.
Male Complications
Men are not safe from complications from a chlamydia infection. In some men, the infection spreads to the epididymis. This can cause pain, sterility and fever.
Effects on a Pregnant Woman and Baby
A chlamydia infection can lead to a premature birth. It can cause respiratory problems or eye infections in your child if it is passed to your child during labor. According to the CDC, the leading cause of pneumonia and pink eye in newborns is a chlamydia infection.
