Chlamydia Trachomatis is a curable bacterial STI. It is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the US. Chlamydia can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Also during vaginal childbirth. Chlamydia is known as a “silent” disease because the majority of people infected have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they usually appear within 1 – 2 weeks after exposure
Symptoms in women:
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pain
• Lower back pain
• Rectal pain, discharge or bleeding
• Painful intercourse
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
Untreated Chlamydia infections can damage the fallopian tubes and lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy.
Symptoms in men:
• Discharge from the penis
• Burning sensation with urination
• Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding
Treatment: (SIP) safe in pregnancy (NSIP) not safe in pregnancy
• Doxycycline 100 mg BID x 7 days (preferred treatment) (NSIP)
• Azithromycin 1 gm single dose (SIP)
• Amoxicillin 500 mg 3x/day x 7 days (SIP)
• Levofloxacin 500 mg daily x 7 days (NSIP)
Follow-up:
• Abstain from intercourse until both partners have finished treatment and abstinence should be continued for 7 days after treatment is completed
• Test of cure in 3 months
Special consideration for pregnant women: There is some evidence that untreated chlamydia infection can lead to premature delivery.
• Babies who are born to infected mothers can get Chlamydia infections in their eyes and respiratory tracts.
• Chlamydia is a leading cause of early infant pneumonia and conjunctivitis in newborns
• Test of cure 3 weeks after completion of treatment is recommended for all pregnant women
• Women < 25 years or have a new or more than one sexual partner, should be retested during the 3rd trimester
• Pregnant women who are diagnosed with Chlamydia during the 1st trimester should not only receive a test to document NEG Chlamydia after treatment, but should also be retested 3 months after treatment
As we observe STD Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to take proactive steps toward prioritizing their sexual health. If you have concerns about STDs or are due for testing, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Women’s Health Specialists. Our compassionate and knowledgeable providers can offer guidance, support, and testing options to help ensure your sexual health and well-being. Don’t wait – take charge of your health today. Schedule your appointment today! Schedule on our website or call us at (920) 749-4000.