Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. In women, it causes infections such as cervicitis, urethritis, and PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease), while in men it can cause urethritis, epididymitis, and prostatitis. Chlamydia, which can have serious consequences if left untreated, can be transmitted through vaginal, oral, and anal sex, as well as from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
Chlamydia Symptoms
Chlamydia presents different symptoms in women and men. In women:
- Vaginal discharge that can be thick and foul-smelling,
- Painful menstrual periods,
- Bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods,
- Pain during sexual intercourse,
- Itching or burning in the area around the vagina,
- Symptoms such as pain during urination are observed.
In men, chlamydia can cause:
- A small amount of clear or cloudy discharge from the tip of the penis,
- Burning and itching around the tip of the penis,
- Painful urination,
- It presents with symptoms such as pain and swelling around the testicles.
Who is at risk of chlamydia?
Chlamydia, which can occur in anyone with an active sex life, is more common in those who engage in unprotected sexual intercourse, those with multiple partners, sexually active women under 25, those whose partners have sexually transmitted diseases, and gay men.
How is Chlamydia Diagnosed and Treated?
To diagnose chlamydia, a small sample is collected from the cervix in women and from the tip of the penis in men and sent to a laboratory. This diagnostic method, called a chlamydia test, is most often performed through cytological examination and bacterial culture. Other diagnostic methods such as antigen determination, direct fluorescent antibody (DFA), enzyme immunoassay (EIA), and nucleic antigen amplification tests (NAAT) can also be used in chlamydia diagnosis.
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection, so it is treated with antibiotics. It is extremely important to continue taking antibiotics for a specific period, even if the symptoms subside. Patients should avoid sexual intercourse during antibiotic treatment. If chlamydia recurs after a certain period, retesting may be necessary. Because chlamydia is contagious between partners, it is important for the partner to also receive treatment for the infection during the treatment process.
Turkish 
English 
