STD:
Chlamydia
By: Angel Robinson
October 5, 2010
Health
1st Block
Introduction:
I will be talking about chlamydia. I’ve chosen this common STD because I think you should know more than your friends know.
Research Report:
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium can infect the cervix in women and the urethra and rectum in both men and women. Occasionally chlamydia can also affect other parts of the body, including the throat and eyes. Chlamydia often has no symptoms, especially among women. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious problems later in life. Chlamydia symptoms usually appear between 1 and 3 weeks after exposure but may not emerge until much later. Chlamydia is known …show more content…
* Men * A white/cloudy and watery discharge from the penis that may stain underwear; * a burning sensation and/or pain when passing urine; * Pain and swelling in the testicles. * Men are more likely to notice chlamydia symptoms than women, though they too may be asymptomatic.
In both men and women a chlamydia infection in the rectum will rarely cause symptoms
Chlamydia can be transmitted: * By having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who is …show more content…
* Complications of chlamydia are less common in men than women.
If a pregnant woman has untreated chlamydia, the infection can potentially be passed on to a baby during pregnancy, giving it an eye or lung infection. Chlamydia can be safely treated during pregnancy provided the correct antibiotics are prescribed.
Prevention:
Using condoms greatly reduces the risk of chlamydia being passed on during sex. Getting tested for STDs at a sexual health clinic, and encouraging new partners to get tested before having sexual intercourse, also helps to prevent transmission.
If you think you may have any of the symptoms listed above then having a chlamydia test is highly recommended. Visit the nearest GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinic, sexual health clinic or doctor as soon as possible to avoid complications. In countries such as the USA and UK, all pregnant women are offered a test for STDs such as chlamydia, and it is recommended that all sexually active women under the age of 25 get screened for STDs at least once a year.
Pictures: