Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world. Most commonly, chlamydia affects the genital area, but it can also infect other parts of the body.
When chlamydia infects parts of the body other than the genital area, it is known as sexually transmitted chlamydial infection of other sites. This type of infection can occur when the bacterium is transmitted through oral or anal sex.
Some of the other sites that chlamydia can infect include the rectum, throat, and eyes. Symptoms of sexually transmitted chlamydial infection of other sites may vary depending on the location of the infection. However, common symptoms include pain, discharge, and itching.
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems. In women, chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to infertility. In men, chlamydia can cause epididymitis, which can also lead to infertility. Chlamydia can also increase the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV.
Preventing sexually transmitted chlamydial infection of other sites is similar to preventing chlamydia in the genital area. The most effective way to prevent chlamydia is to practice safe sex. This includes using condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex, and getting tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections.
If you are diagnosed with chlamydia, it is important to inform your sexual partners so they can get tested and treated as well. It is also important to abstain from sexual activity until you have completed treatment and have been cleared by your healthcare provider.
Treatment for sexually transmitted chlamydial infection of other sites usually involves a course of antibiotics. The type of antibiotic prescribed will depend on the location of the infection. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
It is also important to get retested after completing treatment to ensure that the infection has been fully cleared. If left untreated or not fully treated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems and can be transmitted to sexual partners.