Chlamydia

What are the treatments for the infection?

Taking antibiotics usually cures the infection. Normal healing may still leave some scar tissue. Sexual partners should also be treated. Sometimes a combination of antibiotics is used for 7 to 10 days. Antibiotics used to treat chlamydia infections include azithromycin, doxycycline, ofloxacin, sulfisoxazole, and erythromycin.

For severe infections that spread to the abdomen, antibiotics are injected into a vein. This procedure is done in the hospital. It is important to note that having the infection does not make one immune to it. Anyone can be infected repeatedly.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Antibiotics may cause stomach upset, rash, or allergic reactions.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

Antibiotic treatment usually works, but there may still be scarring of the woman's reproductive organs. Someone who does not finish taking the entire course of antibiotics can be reinfected. Reinfection may also occur unless all sexual partners are treated.

How is the infection monitored?

After a course of antibiotics has been taken successfully, the healthcare provider may repeat the culture of material from the infected area. If the test is positive, it usually means reinfection has occurred. This is particularly likely if a sexual partner has not been treated or did not complete treatment.

Being screened for chlamydia every year, or any time there is a new sexual partner, is a good practice. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.