Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI). It spreads through vaginal, anal and/or oral sex without proper use of a condom or oral dam. If not detected and treated, it can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which can cause infertility (the inability to have a baby), tubal pregnancy, and sterility.
Symptoms
People with chlamydia may show no signs or symptoms or may experience any of the following:
- Pain or burning during urination.
- Pain, itching, bleeding, and/or discharge in rectum (chlamydia in rectum).
- Redness, itching and/or discharge of eyes (chlamydia in the eyes).
- Sore throat, cough, swollen lymph nodes, and/or fever (chlamydia in the throat).
People with a vagina may experience:
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse or between menstrual periods.
- Vaginal discharge.
- Pain in the abdomen or lower back.
- Pain during intercourse.
People with a penis may experience:
- Itchy urethra.
- Clear, watery or milky discharge from the penis.
- Testicular pain or swelling.
Testing and treatment
Testing for chlamydia is done through a urine test and/or swabbing the affected area. If detected early, antibiotics can treat and cure chlamydia. See your health-care provider for STBBI testing.
Prevention is key to protecting yourself and your partner from STBBIs. Click here for safer sex tips.
Services related to this information:
- Contact Planned Parenthood — NL Sexual Health Centre at 1-877 NO MYTHS (666-9847) or 709-579-1009
- Contact your Public Health Nurse:
- 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
Eastern-Urban:
- Contact the Sexual Health Clinic at sexualhealthclinic@easternhealth.ca.
- Contact the community walk-in clinic (Mundy Pond) at 709-777-1706