What is it?
Chlamydia is a very common bacterial infection spread through sex. Nearly 2 million Americans get it every year. However, many who have chlamydia don’t show any symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
Often people don’t have any symptoms. When symptoms are present, it may take up to three weeks for chlamydia symptoms to appear. The most common symptoms are: Pain or burning while peeing Pain during sex Abnormal vaginal discharge Vaginal bleeding between periods or after vaginal intercourse Pus or abnormal discharge from the penis Swollen or tender testicles Pain, discharge, and/or bleeding around the anus Lower belly pain Red eyes
How is it spread?
Chlamydia can be spread through: Unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex Sharing sex toys Contact with the genitals of an infected partner From mother to baby during childbirth *Hugging, sitting on toilet seats, sharing utensils and dishes will not spread chlamydia.
How do I get tested?
Testing for chlamydia is done with a urine test (peeing in a cup) or by taking a swab from your penis, vagina, throat, or butt. The type of sex you have will determine the right type of test for you.
How do I get treated?
Chlamydia can easily be treated with antibiotics. Avoid having sex (even with a condom) for seven days after treatment to prevent the spread of chlamydia. Inform all of the people you have had sex with in the past 60 days so that they can get treatment and not spread the infection. It's important that treatment is complete before having sex again. Return to your provider for STI testing again in three months.
How do you prevent it? Using a condom every time you have vaginal or anal sex Using a condom to cover the penis during oral sex Using a dam (a piece of thin, soft plastic or latex) to cover the vagina during oral sex or when rubbing female genitals together Washing sex toys between users, or using separate sex toys per person for toys made of porous materials Having sex with one person who is only having sex with you.
Druid Sexual Health Clinic 1515 W. North Ave. (2nd Floor)
Baltimore, MD 21217 (410) 396-0176 Metro Subway: Penn-North Station
Eastern Sexual Health Clinic 1200 E. Fayette St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 396-9410 Metro Subway: Shot Tower
Find Us Online health.baltimorecity.gov endhivbaltimore.com
Updated January 23, 2022