Chlamydia

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Australia, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It spreads through unprotected sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Many people with chlamydia do not notice symptoms, which is why routine sexual health check-ups are recommended if you are sexually active.

Common Symptoms of Chlamydia

Chlamydia often goes unnoticed, but when symptoms occur, they may include:

• Pain or burning when urinating
• Abnormal discharge from the penis, vagina, or rectum
• Pain during sexual activity or pelvic discomfort
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Rectal pain or discharge (if infection occurs in that area)

Not everyone develops symptoms, which means infections can be present without being detected unless tested.

Why Sexual Health Check-Ups Matter

Many sexual and reproductive health concerns, including infections like chlamydia, may not show obvious signs or symptoms. Because of this, regular check-ups are a good idea especially if you’ve had a new partner or haven’t been screened in a while.

Qualified healthcare professionals can guide you through a confidential discussion, provide testing recommendations, and share reliable resources to support your health in a safe and non-judgemental way.

Why Early Testing Matters

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can impact fertility, or inflammation of the testicles in men. Early diagnosis and care can prevent these complications.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Care (Emergency Situations)

While chlamydia itself is usually not an emergency, certain symptoms may require immediate medical attention or calling 000. These include:

• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Heavy bleeding that is unusual or unexpected
• Fever, chills, or symptoms of severe infection
• Severe pain or swelling in the testicles
• Sudden severe pain during pregnancy (as STIs can cause complications)

If you experience these symptoms, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department immediately.

Prevention and Sexual Wellbeing

• Use condoms or dental dams during sexual activity.
• Schedule regular sexual health check-ups, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
• Have open conversations with partners about STI testing and protection.
• Speak with a healthcare provider about your individual risks and screening options.

Note: This information is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personal medical concerns