This should serve as good news as, according to the American Sexual Health Association, chlamydia is causing close to 1.5 million new infections every year.
Till such time we get the chlamydia vaccine in the market, there can be no compromise with regular screening.
According to a doctor in Arlington, chlamydia screening is essential because it often goes undetected in the human body. “If left untreated chlamydia can cause serious health issues in both men and women”.
- In women, chlamydia can lead to urinary issues, discharge from cervix, and pelvic inflammatory disease (a serious infection of the reproductive organs) that can cause infertility.
- In men, chlamydia if left untreated can cause prostrate inflammation, scarring of the urethra and even infertility.
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about chlamydia.
How is Chlamydia spread?
A person can get chlamydia through vaginal, oral or anal sex with someone who has chlamydia. A pregnant woman with chlamydia can transmit the disease to her baby.
Who are at risk for chlamydia?
Sexually active people are at a higher risk. This is due to behavioral characteristics among young people. Gay and bisexual men are also at risk since this sexually transmitted infection can spread through oral and anal sex.
How will I know if I have this disease?
Chlamydia, more often than not, does not show any symptoms. Yet, even in a symptomless condition it can cause serious health problems. If symptoms do occur, they may not appear until several weeks after sexual intercourse with a partner having chlamydia.
Women with symptoms may experience:
- Unusual vaginal discharge or / and
- Burning sensation while urinating
Men may notice the following symptoms:
- Discharge from their penis
- Burning sensation while peeing
- Pain and swelling in one or both testicles
How will a doctor know if I have chlamydia?
Lab tests can diagnose chlamydia. In Virginia chlamydia screening test is available. You may be asked to provide a urine sample for testing or they may use a cotton swab to get a vaginal sample.
Is there a cure for this disease?
Yes, there is. The right kind of treatment can cure chlamydia. It is however, vital that you must take all the medicines the doctor has prescribed for you. If the medication is taken as per instructions it will halt the infection and minimize the possibilities of getting complications later.
Here is a warning.
You must refrain from sex until you and your partner complete the treatment. If you have been given a single dose you must wait for seven days after taking the medication before resuming sex.
If you are sexually active, inevitably you will be exposed to pathogens. It is no wonder healthcare providers recommend testing. In Virginia chlamydia screening test is not an issue at all. You can visit an urgent care center with no appointment needed. Just walk in during extended clinic hours. You even have the advantage of same day treatment.
