Chlamydia: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as silent STI.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and is frequently silent — most infected people feel nothing. Left untreated it can scar the fallopian tubes and cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy. It is easily cured with the right antibiotics.
Symptoms
Often no symptoms
Vaginal or penile discharge
Burning when urinating
Pain during sex
Bleeding between periods or after sex
Testicular pain
Causes & risk factors
Unprotected sex with an infected partner
Multiple partners without condom use
Mother-to-baby transmission during delivery
Treatment & self-care
A confirmed infection is cured with a prescribed antibiotic course, with partners treated simultaneously and no sex until both complete treatment. Because it is so often silent, sexually active people with any risk should test periodically. Condoms remain the best prevention.
See a doctor urgently if
Genital discharge or burning urination
Pelvic pain or pain during sex
Trying to conceive after a past untreated STI
A partner tests positive for chlamydia
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Chlamydia?
Early signs often include often no symptoms, vaginal or penile discharge, burning when urinating. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Chlamydia be treated?
A confirmed infection is cured with a prescribed antibiotic course, with partners treated simultaneously and no sex until both complete treatment. Because it is so often silent, sexually active people with any risk should test periodically. Condoms remain the best prevention.
When should I see a doctor about Chlamydia?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: genital discharge or burning urination; pelvic pain or pain during sex; trying to conceive after a past untreated sti; a partner tests positive for chlamydia.