Symptoms of Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease, one that can be afflicted very easily, as there are many ways in which it can spread. Chlamydia can be transmitted through vaginal sex, oral sex and anal sex. Chlamydia can be transmitted from an infected mother to her child, if it is a vaginal birth. Like any other STD, the chances of chlamydia are higher, as the number of sex partners increases. As it can be transmitted via anal sex as well, chlamydia can be contracted by homosexual males too. Boy!! Looks like 'abstinence', is the only precaution for this disease.

Statistically, two out of three chlamydia patients are not aware of having been infected by it. Nonetheless, it is very dangerous, as chlamydia can cause damage to a woman's reproductive organs and also cause complete infertility. Hence, in case you find yourself (or even someone you know) complaining of any of the following symptoms, seek medical help.

Symptoms of Chlamydia

The reason why chlamydia is known as a silent killer is because, in several cases, there are no symptoms. In case, there are symptoms they will be visible within three weeks of the infection.

• Women who have chlamydia can have abnormal vaginal discharge. Some might experience a burning sensation during urination: Although, there are other types of infections that may cause this, consult your gynecologist ASAP!!
• After the infection has spread from the cervix to the fallopian tube, some women might experience lower abdominal pain, low back pain, nausea, fever, acute pain during intercourse, or bleeding between menstrual periods: Pain during intercourse and bleeding between menstrual cycles is a very serious symptom. Do not pretermit it.
• Men who have chlamydia can show symptoms like discharge from the penis, burning sensation during urination, irritation and itching around the penis opening: Men often fail to consult a doctor, when it comes to their 'equipment'. Do not shy away from it. Even if it's 'probably nothing', consult a doctor NOW!!
• Some men could also experience pain and swelling of the testicles (this is fairly rare, as compared to the other symptoms): This symptom isn't experienced a lot. Hence, if you are experiencing it, it is my humble suggestion, discuss it with your doctor.
• Men or women who have receptive anal sex can contract chlamydia in the rectum. This can cause rectal pain, discharge or bleeding: Even if these symptoms occur after your first escapade, visit your doctor.
• Oral sex givers can contract chlamydia of the throat: No other STD can be transmitted via oral sex. If you experience any odd health issue, RUN to your doctor!

If untreated, chlamydia can have several repercussions causing complications in reproduction and other day-to-day functions. It is a curable disease, but a highly contagious one. Hence, prevention is, any day, better than cure. A simple and easy way to do that is regular checks for chlamydia. It is suggested that a woman (with an active sex life) get herself tested, once a year. The prenatal testing should include testing for chlamydia.

The Indian culture strongly supports the concept of 'moral restraint', and for good reason too. Sexual intercourse should be an act between two individuals who love and trust each other. The least that will do, is keep the STD monster considerably at bay. Take care, for your actions can, at times, have grave consequences on your loved ones!