Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. People with chlamydia infection often do not know they have it. In Switzerland, the majority of chlamydial infections are diagnosed in women of childbearing age, but this may also be related to increased screening in this group. Chlamydia is transmitted during oral, vaginal and anal sex.
Can I get chlamydia if we share sex toys?
Yes, if you share sex toys or lubricants that are colonized by chlamydia, you can inadvertently pass on the bacteria.
How long does it take for signs of illness to appear in a chlamydial infection?
If you notice signs of illness after infection, they will appear after a few days. However, it can sometimes take several weeks.
What are the symptoms and signs of chlamydia?
Men are more likely to have symptoms than women. Possible symptoms in men may include: Urethritis with or without discharge, pain and burning during urination. If women have signs of illness, these may include an unusual vaginal discharge, burning when urinating, itching, lower abdominal pain, or bleeding during or after sexual intercourse. When anal sex is practiced, both men and women may experience inflammation of the rectal mucosa with itching and burning at the anus and mucous or bloody deposits on the stool. In pharyngeal infestations, symptoms are rather rare and nonspecific.
What are the possible consequences of chlamydia?
Often chlamydia infections heal without treatment, but during this time you are infectious. Women may experience pelvic inflammatory disease. In men, epididymitis may occur. Also observed are joint complaints or eye inflammation.
What is lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?
LGV is a subtype of chlamydia. These pathogens are found almost exclusively in the anus. Because they can lead to fistulas or other complications if not treated, they should be looked for in anal symptoms. They require longer antibiotic treatment than other forms of chlamydia, with review of the success of therapy.
