Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that spreads through sexual contact. It often doesn’t cause symptoms, but if untreated, it can lead to health problems.

• Unprotected sexual contact: Engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom can spread the infection.
• Mother to child: A pregnant woman with chlamydia can pass the infection to her baby during childbirth, which may cause eye infections or pneumonia in the newborn.

• Sexually active individuals: People who are sexually active, especially those with multiple partners, are at higher risk.
• Young adults: Young people aged 15-24 are more likely to get chlamydia than older adults.
• Not using protection: Having unprotected sex significantly increases the risk.
• Previous STIs: If you’ve had a sexually transmitted infection before, you’re at a higher risk of getting chlamydia.

• In women: Women with chlamydia may experience abnormal vaginal discharge, pain during urination, and pain during sex. Other common symptoms include lower abdominal pain and bleeding between periods.
• In men: Men with chlamydia may notice discharge from the penis, pain during urination, and pain or swelling in one or both testicles.
• Both men and women: Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding if the infection is in the rectum (due to anal sex).

• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain: This could indicate that the infection has spread to other areas, such as the fallopian tubes, leading to more serious complications.
• Painful or swollen testicles: This could indicate a serious infection that requires prompt treatment.
• Unusual discharge or bleeding: Any unusual discharge or bleeding, especially after sexual activity, should be checked by a healthcare provider.

• Urine test: A sample of urine is tested to detect the chlamydia bacteria.
• Swab test: For women, a swab may be taken from the cervix, and for men, a swab may be taken from the urethra. Swabs can also be taken from other potentially affected areas, like the throat or rectum, if needed.

• Avoid sexual activity: Abstain from sex until the infection is fully cleared to prevent spreading it to others.
• Notify sexual partners: Inform anyone who has had sexual contact with you, so they can get tested and treated as well.

• Painful urination or unusual discharge: These are common signs of a possible chlamydia infection.
• Pain or swelling in the genitals: This could indicate the infection has progressed and requires immediate attention.
• Recent sexual activity with a partner who may be infected: If you've had contact with someone who might have chlamydia, getting tested is crucial to prevent further spread.

• Use condoms consistently: Using condoms during vaginal, anal, or oral sex greatly reduces the risk of transmitting or contracting chlamydia.
• Limit the number of sexual partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners can lower the risk of exposure to sexually transmitted infections.
• Get tested regularly: Regular STI testing is essential, especially for sexually active individuals with new or multiple partners.
• Communication with partners: It’s important to have open conversations about sexual health and testing with any potential partner before engaging in sexual activity.

• Abstain from sexual activity: The most reliable way to prevent chlamydia is to abstain from any sexual contact.
• Monogamous relationships: Engaging in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is free from STIs lowers the risk.
• Regular health check-ups: Staying proactive with routine health check-ups, including sexual health screenings, can help detect infections early and reduce the risk of transmission.