Chlamydia

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Several safer sex practices can help prevent the spread of chlamydia infection. Male condoms and female condoms provide some protection. Single partner relationships are safer than sexual interaction with multiple partners.

Any new partners should be asked about their sexual history and should be tested for sexually transmitted disease. Sexual contact should be postponed until the tests show no infection in the partner.

Finally, a screening for chlamydia can be done at the same time as a routine annual Pap smear and pelvic exam. Chlamydia screening in pregnant women can help stop the infection in newborns.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Chlamydia infections in females are strongly associated with the development of cervical dysplasia, or abnormal cells in the cervix, and cancer of the cervix.

It is important to treat chlamydia infections of the cervix in women to prevent scarring of the fallopian tubes which connect the ovaries to the uterus. Severe or untreated chlamydia infections can cause the following serious complications:

Chlamydia infections in men can cause acute epididymitis, or an inflammation of a structure attached to the testes. Rectal chlamydia can cause narrowing of the rectum or ulcers in the rectum.

Chlamydia infections of the newborn can cause visual impairment, respiratory problems, and death.

What are the risks to others?

Chlamydia infections are highly contagious and can be passed through sexual intercourse and other intimate contact. A woman who is pregnant can pass the chlamydia infection to her baby during delivery. The baby may then develop an eye infection or pneumonia.