Both men and women may also be infected in the rectum or throat, if they engage in anal intercourse or oral-genital sex. Unfortunately, most women experience NO initial warning symptoms of chlamydia. They might notice painful or burning urination or an unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding. Severe inflammation and scarring can lead to infertility or increased risk of tubal pregnancy because of partially blocked fallopian tubes. Chlamydia is a leading cause of infertility worldwide.
Men are more likely to experience symptoms of chlamydia, but they, too, are sometimes asymptomatic.
Within 1-3 weeks of infection, men may notice painful urination or a clear or white discharge from the penis. Untreated chlamydia in men can result in inflammation of the epididymis, located on the testicle in the scrotum. This can produce infertility. Sometimes, men who are genetically susceptible may develop a form of arthritis called Reiters Syndrome. Testing for chlamydia is relatively simple.