| |
What
is chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a very common sexually
transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria exchanged during
vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Chlamydia is currently the
most common STI. It is estimated
that one in 10 girls test positive for chlamydia.
What does chlamydia
do to me?
Many
times, the signs that you have chlamydia
are not obvious. This is why you
must be extremely careful if you notice
any of the following signs:
Girls/Women
- Discharge from the vagina
- Pain when peeing
- Pain when having sex
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Bleeding between periods
Guys/Men
- Discharge from the penis
- Pain or burning
when peeing
Is there a cure for chlamydia?
Yes! Luckily, chlamydia can
be cured with antibiotics. If you have
had chlamydia for a long time, chlamydia
can lead to a more serious problem
called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
(PID), which can cause you to not
be able to have babies in the future.
How do I find out if I
have chlamydia?
Once you start having sex, make sure you
ask your healthcare provider to test
you for chlamydia at least once a year.
How can I reduce my risk
of getting chlamydia?
- Get
Tested
A
simple
test using
urine or or
a swab from
the infected
area can determine
if you or any
of your partners
have chlamydia.
- Limit the Number of Partners You Have
The
fewer partners
you have
who are
known to
be uninfected,
the less
chance
you will
get chlamydia.
- Don't Have Sex
Do not
have sex or take part in any
sexual activity with anyone who
is exhibiting symptoms of chlamydia.
- Protect Yourself
Use a
condom or any barrier, such as
plastic wrap or dental dam, to
prevent skin to skin contact
with the infected area. This
method will not guarantee prevention,
but it will increase protection
and is a good way to prevent
other STIs.
|
