Getting the clam out of chlamydia – Start the Conversation
Did you notice that sneaky “h” at the beginning of Chlamydia? Coincidentally, the conversation on the STI itself is equally silent, despite Chlamydia being the single most common STI in Hamilton*.
How do I know it’s Chlamydia?
YOU DON’T. Chlamydia often has no visible symptoms, and even when it does, it can be similar to those of other infections or STIs. These include:
- Abnormal vaginal dischange
- Burning during urination
- Unusual sores or rashes
Should I tell the people I am having sex with?
YES. Chlamydia is an infectious disease and is passed on through any form of sexual activity. Even with treatment, you remain infectious until the end of the regime.
Will it go away?
CHLAMYDIA WILL NOT GO AWAY WITHOUT TREATMENT, but it can be easily cured with treatment.
Can I catch it again?
UNFORTUNATELY, YES. Doctors haven’t yet managed to figure out how to prevent you from getting re-infected; however, condoms can reduce the risk. This means you should get tested regularly, and with every new sexual partner.
Why should I get tested?
- YOU WON’T KNOW OTHERWISE — Over 70% of females and 50% of males show no symptoms.
- EASY-PEESY — Ask your doctor: The test is usually just a simple urine sample.
- SAFE OR SORRY? — When detected early, Chlamydia treatment is just a round of antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can cause:
- Infertility in both men and women
- Miscarriages or ectopic pregnancy
- Long-term pain in the pelvis (PID)
Source