STD Information » Chlamydia

Overview

Chlamydia is a very common sexually transmitted disease (STD).  It is contracted by having any sort of sexual intercourse with an infected person and is caused by bacteria (specifically, Chlamydia trachomatis).  If left untreated it can cause a host of problems in both men and women.  Thankfully, Chlamydia is curable.

How is Chlamydia diagnosed?

The two most reliable way of identifying Chlamydia are:

• Penile or Vaginal Fluid Swab
  A sample of fluid is collected from the penis or vagina and is examined microscopically for the offending bacteria
• Urine Sample
  Another way to look for bacteria that causes for chlamydia is by taking a urine sample..

How is Chlamydia treated?

Chlamydia is easily treated with a prescription for any of the antibiotics:

• Azithromycin
  Taken for one day
• Doxycycline
  Taken for seven days
• Erythromycin or Ofloxacin
  Dosage and treatment span to be determined by the physician

Recovery Time

Symptoms should disappear within 1 to 2 weeks of taking medication. If you're still experiencing symptoms after 2 weeks of treatment, see your doctor immediately.

Sexual Activity

It is important not to have sex until your symptoms have gone away and you have completed your medication.

Partners and Re-infection

It is important to inform any sexual partners that you have Chlamydia so that they can also be tested and, if necessary, treated.  Until the treatment is successful, sexual activity should be avoided so as to prevent infecting sexual partners.  Re-infection is always a possibility with Chlamydia, so making sure that you and your partner are free from the disease is important.

Prevention

The only sure way to prevent Chlamydia is to completely abstain from sexual activity. If you are already sexually active, a long term, monogamous relationship with a disease-free partner is best. Consistent use of latex condoms greatly reduces the risk of infection as well. Annual screening for the disease is also important.