Chlamydia

What is it?

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can infect anyone. It can cause serious, permanent damage to the reproductive system, making it difficult or impossible for someone to get pregnant later on. Chlamydia can also cause a potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy that occurs outside the womb).

According to the CDC 2020 STD Surveillance Report, Louisiana ranks #2 for chlamydia.

What to watch for:

  • Symptoms show up 7-28 days after infection.
  • Burning when urinating
  • Discharge from genitals
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Pain during sex
  • Watery, white drip from penis
  • Need to urinate more often
  • Pain in abdomen, sometimes with fever & nausea
  • Swollen or tender testicles

How do you get it?

Spread during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has chlamydia.

What happens if you don’t get treated?

  • You can give chlamydia to your sex partner(s).
  • Can lead to more serious infection.
  • Reproductive organs can be damaged.
  • You may no longer be able to have children.
  • A birthing parent with chlamydia can give it to the baby during childbirth.

Can it be cured?

Yes.

Is there a vaccination?

No.