Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by chlamydia trachomatis. The infection is acquired mainly through sexual intercourse. In addition to transmission through vaginal intercourse, it is possible to contract chlamydia through anal intercourse. Oral sex that includes ejaculation with an infected partner may lead to a chlamydial throat infection. When symptoms are present they usually appear within 1-3 weeks of exposure and may be very mild.
Men can have swelling or pain in the testicles.
Women can experience lower abdominal pain, pain during intercourse, spot bleeding between menstrual periods or after intercourse. The majority of people with chlamydia have no symptoms or very mild symptoms, so it is important to be screened for chlamydia if you are sexually active or if you have a new sexual partner. Testing includes a culture type of lab test with the cervical secretions of a female or penile secretions or urine from a male. A chlamydia infection can be treated and cured with a specific type and amount of antibiotic. Remember, it is likely that your partner will not have symptoms of an infection.