Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in North America. Named after the bacteria that cause it, chlamydia can be passed through almost any form of sexual contact, and it is highly infectious. Because chlamydia is so easily spread, the bacteria can also pass from an infected mother to her newborn.
While many people with chlamydia don't even know they have it, there are some symptoms that might be felt, and the symptoms differ slightly from men to women and from adults to newborns. Women may experience symptoms around their cervix, including abnormal bleeding, and men may notice changes to their penis, such as discharge or redness.
In both men and women, serious complications can arise from chlamydia. Men may become infertile if the infection spreads, and women may develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can in turn lead to infertility.
If you think you might be infected with chlamydia or any other STI, your first step should be to see your doctor and get tested. Fortunately, chlamydia can be cured easily and quickly - often with a single dose of medication or a course of antibiotics.
If you are diagnosed with chlamydia or another STI, you must tell your sexual partner(s). They would need to be tested for the STI as well.