Definition:  A common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which can damage a woman's reproductive organs.

Symptoms of Chlamydia in women include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Burning sensation with urination
• Lower abdominal pain
• Low back pain
• Nausea
• Fever
• Painful intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods

 Symptoms of Chlamydia in men include:

• Discharge from the penis
• Burning sensation with urination
• Burning and itching around the opening of the penis
• Pain and swelling in the testicles (though uncommon)

Treatment for Chlamydia

• Treatment for Chlamydia should be done before having an abortion.
• Visit your doctor, who will prescribe antibiotics to treat your Chlamydia infection.
• Several antibiotics can successfully cure Chlamydia in adolescents and adults.
• It is important to take all of the medication prescribed to cure Chlamydia.
• Get yearly check-ups with your doctor.
• Stop having sex during treatment for Chlamydia.
• Notify all sex partners that you have an STI so they can be tested and treated.
• You should be re-tested for Chlamydia 3-4 months after finishing treatment.

Information on this page provided by the US Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.  www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia.htm

• Of patients who have a Chlamydia infection at the time of an abortion, 23% will develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) within four weeks.
• Chlamydia is the most prevalent bacterial STI.
• Use of hormonal contraceptives increases your risk of contracting Chlamydia.
• 75% of women who are infected with Chlamydia do not know they have it, because they have NO SYMPTOMS.