Chlamydial Urethritis
Chlamydial Urethritis - What You Need To Know
Chlamydial urethritis is an infection of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder and out of the body. It is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis, which is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The bacteria can be passed through any type of sexual contact, including anal intercourse, or through sharing of sex toys, and can be passed even if there are no symptoms.
Chlamydial urethritis can cause a range of symptoms, including a burning sensation during urination, discharge of a milky white fluid from the urethra, itching in the area around the penis or vagina, and swelling of the testicles or vagina. In some cases, it can also lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility in men and women.
For most people, the only way to know if they have chlamydia is to have a laboratory test done. A swab or urine sample is taken and sent to laboratories, where it is tested for the presence of the bacteria. The American Sexual Health Association recommends that all sexually active adults be tested every year or more often if there is a risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you are diagnosed with chlamydial urethritis, there are treatments available that can help to reduce the symptoms. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to clear the infection, and the length of time you need to take them varies depending on the type of antibiotic used. It is important to finish the full course of treatment even if the symptoms seem to go away, as the infection can return if it is not fully eliminated.
Complications from Chlamydial Urethritis
If left untreated, chlamydial urethritis can lead to serious complications. In men, it can lead to inflammation of the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles, which can cause infertility. In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is a serious infection of the reproductive organs which can cause pain, fever, inflammation of the fallopian tubes, and can lead to infertility. Other complications can include chronic pelvic pain, an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, and an increased risk of other STIs.
Preventing Chlamydial Urethritis
The best way to prevent chlamydial urethritis is to practice safer sex, including using condoms or other barrier methods during sexual activity and having regular STI testing.
- Always use a new, undamaged condom every time you have sex.
- Avoid sexual contact if either partner has any sores, bumps, or wounds that could result in exchanging body fluids.
- Minimize the number of sexual partners.
- Avoid sharing sex toys.
- Be tested and treated for STIs and get re-tested if any new partners.
- Consult a healthcare provider if any symptoms of chlamydial urethritis are present.
By being proactive and taking the steps to prevent and treat chlamydial urethritis, you can reduce your chances of developing any complications and stay healthy.