Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in Australia. It is caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. In women, Chlamydia infection usually affects the neck of the womb (cervix) and the womb (uterus). In men, it usually affects the urethra (the tube urine passes through), in the penis. Chlamydia often causes no symptoms. If you have Chlamydia infection it is essential that you seek treatment even if you do not have any symptoms because serious complications may develop if it is left untreated, and you may also pass on the infection to your sexual partner(s). If you are sexually active or change sexual partners it’s important to get checked. This usually just involves a urine test, which can be arranged via your GP.
Complications of chlamydia infection
Pelvic inflammatory Disease (PID) :If left untreated, Chlamydia may cause serious infection of the womb (uterus) and fallopian tubes, which is called PID. This may develop suddenly and cause a high temperature (fever) and pain. It can also develop slowly over months or years without causing symptoms (also known as silent PID). However, in time, scarring or damage to the fallopian tubes may occur. PID can cause persistent (chronic) pelvic pain, infertility, and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy ( a pregnancy that develops outside the uterus which can cause serious life-threatening problems for the woman).
Risk of developing complications of chlamydia in pregnancy- rates of miscarriage, premature birth and stillbirth are increased in pregnant women with untreated Chlamydia. Also, if you have untreated Chlamydia infection during childbirth, your baby may contract an infection of their eyes or lungs during the birth.
Reduced fertility in men may occur due to inflammation of the testes and reduction in sperm quality.
Reactive arthritis is a rare complication which can occur both in men, and less frequently in women. In this condition, you get painful swollen joints. This is sometimes combined with inflammation of the eye and of urethra and is termed Reiter’s syndrome.
The risk of complications is reduced if chlamydia infection is treated early. So if you’re worried about chlamydia, then see your GP or health professional as soon as possible for advice, testing and treatment.
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Clinical review & governance
Medically reviewed by Dr AIFRIC BOYLAN
CEO
About Dr Aifric Boylan MB BCh BAO MICGP FRACGP DRCOG DCH Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, Dr Aifric Boylan is a general practitioner with more than 20 years' experience. She graduated in medicine from…
This health information has been clinically reviewed by an Australian doctor. Qoctor health pages are reviewed to support clear, evidence-informed guidance; they do not replace individual medical advice.
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