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Chlamydia

Chlamydia: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention in Oklahoma

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States, and Oklahoma is no exception. Often called the “silent” infection, chlamydia frequently produces no symptoms, yet it can have serious consequences if left untreated. This guide aims to raise awareness about chlamydia causes, symptoms, prevention, and testing in Oklahoma.

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by the microorganism Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that spreads primarily through sexual contact and can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Because it often has no symptoms, many people don’t know they have it.

How Chlamydia Spreads: Causes & Transmission

It’s crucial to understand that chlamydia has one specific cause: the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium is fragile and cannot survive for long outside the human body.

Primary Modes of Transmission

  • Sexual Contact: This is the most common way chlamydia spreads. The bacteria are passed through direct contact with infected mucous membranes during:
    • Vaginal Sex: The most common mode of transmission.
    • Anal Sex: Receptive anal sex carries a high risk of transmission.
    • Oral Sex: While less common, it is possible to transmit the infection to the throat or mouth.
  • Mother-to-Child Transmission: An infected mother can pass the bacterium to her baby during childbirth. This can lead to serious eye infections (conjunctivitis) or pneumonia in the newborn.

What DOESN’T Cause Chlamydia (Common Myths)

You cannot get chlamydia from casual contact. The bacterium does not spread through:

  • Hugging, shaking hands, or kissing
  • Sharing food, drinks, or utensils
  • Toilet seats, hot tubs, or swimming pools
  • Contact with clothing or other objects

Symptoms & Signs of Chlamydia

The primary concern with chlamydia is that it is often asymptomatic, meaning it shows no signs or symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they typically appear within a few weeks of infection.

Symptoms in Women

The majority of women with chlamydia do not experience symptoms. However, when symptoms are present, they can include:

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge (may be yellowish with a strong odor)
  • Bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Painful urination (a burning sensation)
  • Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding (from anal infection)
  • Sore throat (from oral infection)

Important Note: These symptoms can be similar to other conditions like a urinary tract infection (UTI) or bacterial vaginosis (BV). Testing is the only way to confirm a chlamydia diagnosis.

Symptoms in Men

Many men with chlamydia also experience no symptoms. If symptoms do develop, they may include:

  • Discharge from the penis (may be clear, white, or yellowish)
  • Painful urination (a burning or stinging sensation)
  • Burning or itching at the opening of the penis
  • Swollen or tender testicles (one or both)
  • Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding (from anal infection)
  • Sore throat (from oral infection)

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical advice and get tested if:

  • You experience any of the symptoms listed above.
  • You have had unprotected sex with a new or untested partner.
  • A sexual partner informs you they have an STI.

Long-Term Complications of Untreated Chlamydia

If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious and permanent health problems.

  • In Women: The infection can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and life-threatening ectopic pregnancies (a pregnancy outside the uterus).
  • In Men: Though less common, complications can include epididymitis (inflammation of the tubes attached to the testicles), which can cause pain and, in rare cases, affect fertility.
  • For All Genders: Untreated chlamydia can lead to Reactive Arthritis (inflammation in joints and eyes) and increases the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.
  • In Pregnancy: Chlamydia can be passed to an infant during delivery, leading to pneumonia or eye infections. Early prenatal testing and treatment are vital.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Getting Diagnosed in Oklahoma

Diagnosing chlamydia is simple and painless. A healthcare provider will use one of two main methods:

  • Urine Test: The most common method. You simply provide a urine sample.
  • Swab Test: A small swab is used to take a sample from the potentially infected area (cervix, vagina, urethra, rectum, or throat).

Treatment for Chlamydia

Chlamydia is easily cured with antibiotics. The most common treatments are a single dose of azithromycin or a week-long course of doxycycline.

  • Complete Treatment: It is essential to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms go away.
  • Notify Partners: Inform all recent sexual partners so they can be tested and treated to prevent reinfection and further spread.
  • Retesting: It is recommended to get retested about three months after treatment to ensure the infection is gone.

Prevention & Risk Factors

You can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your partners from chlamydia.

How to Prevent Chlamydia

  • Use Condoms: Correct and consistent use of condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex significantly reduces your risk.
  • Get Tested Regularly: If you are sexually active, regular STI testing is the most important thing you can do. The CDC recommends yearly testing for all sexually active women under 25 and for older women with new or multiple partners.
  • Communicate Openly: Talk to your partners about sexual history and STI testing before you have sex.
  • Limit Partners: Reducing your number of sexual partners lowers your risk of exposure.

Key Risk Factors

You are at a higher risk for chlamydia if you:

  • Are young (sexually active people under 25 have the highest rates).
  • Have multiple or new sexual partners.
  • Do not consistently use condoms.
  • Have a history of other STIs.

Oklahoma Resources: Getting Help

Where to Get Tested in Oklahoma

You can get confidential testing and treatment at many locations, including:

  • Your primary doctor or healthcare provider
  • County health departments
  • Community health clinics
  • Planned Parenthood clinics

Leading the Fight in Oklahoma

The Ending HIV Oklahoma & Hepatitis Planning Council (OHHPC) plays a key role in combating chlamydia in the state through public awareness campaigns, advocating for accessible screening, provider education, and supporting policies that prioritize sexual health.

For More Information

Don’t wait. If you are concerned about chlamydia, getting tested is the best way to protect your health.