Chlamydia is the most common STD in the Netherlands. There are an estimated 60,000 new chlamydia infections each year, only a minority of which are actually diagnosed. Chlamydia is an STD caused by the spread of Chlamydia Trachomatis, a type of bacteria. It is one of the most common STDs, spread through sexual activity.
How do you get Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is spread when an infected person has sexual contact with an uninfected person.
You can get chlamydia by:
• Unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, and oral)
• Using sex toys that have not been washed after being used by someone infected with chlamydia
• Your genitals come into contact with the genitals from an infected person (this includes dry sex)
• Your eyes come into contact with the genital fluid of an infected person
You cannot get chlamydia from:
• Cuddling, kissing or sharing a bed
• Swimming pools, baths or toilet seats
• Sharing towels or clothes
What are the symptoms of Chlamydia? About 70% of women and 50% of men experience no symptoms of chlamydia. That's why it's important to get screened regularly if you're sexually active. However, some people may experience symptoms that usually appear within 1-3 weeks of contracting the infection.
Symptoms of chlamydia may include:
• Painful sex
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Severe pain in the lower abdomen, with or without fever
• A milky/yellowish discharge from the vagina with a strong odor
• Pain and bleeding during or after sex
• Discharge from the penis
• Swollen or tender testicles
• Pain/itching or discharge from the anus
It is important to remember that symptoms of chlamydia are not always present and you should be tested regularly, especially if you have several sexual partners.
What happens if Chlamydia is left untreated?
If left untreated, you can develop serious complaints. As a woman you can become infertile. Consequences in women:
• Inflammation in the fallopian tubes
• Inflammation in the pelvic region
• Abdominal pain that does not pass
• Impaired fertility
• Ectopic pregnancy
How is Chlamydia treated? The good news is that Chlamydia can be easily treated with a short course of antibiotics. Most treatments are a one-time course of antibiotics taken once as a single dose, but there are other treatment options that last a week. Depending on your medical history (e.g. allergies, pre-existing medical conditions), you may be prescribed either one. It is important to use antibiotics as soon as possible to avoid further complications. Most people do not experience any side effects from the treatment.
It is important not to have sex during your treatment and for a week afterwards, as you may still have traces of the bacteria in your system.
When can I have sex again?
If you have just been treated for chlamydia, you should avoid vaginal, oral or anal sex for 7 days after finishing your treatment. It takes most people about 7 days to completely get rid of Chlamydia, but you may want to retest to make sure. It is important to let your sexual partners know that you have chlamydia so that they too can be treated and prevent you (or others) from being re-infected.
How can I avoid getting chlamydia?
• Use a condom every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex
• Use a dental dam to cover the vagina during oral or dry sex
• Do not share (or wash) sex toys thoroughly before use)
