Chlamydia Transmission: Risks, Prevention, and Safe Practices

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It spreads primarily through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner. The infection can affect the cervix, urethra, rectum, throat, and eyes.

Key Transmission Facts

• Sexual contact: The bacteria are transmitted via semen, pre-ejaculate, vaginal fluids, and rectal fluids during unprotected sex.
• No casual transmission: Chlamydia cannot be spread through sharing towels, bedding, swimming pools, toilet seats, or body scrubs.
• Mother to child: An infected mother can pass the infection to her baby during vaginal delivery, potentially causing eye infections or pneumonia in the newborn.

Prevention and Safe Practices

• Use latex or polyurethane condoms correctly every time you have sex.
• Limit sexual partners and ensure mutual monogamy with an uninfected partner.
• Get tested regularly if you are sexually active, especially under age 25 or with new/multiple partners.
• Notify recent sexual partners if you test positive so they can get treated.

Testing and Treatment

Chlamydia is easily diagnosed with a urine test or swab. It is curable with antibiotics (typically azithromycin or doxycycline). Complete the full course of medication and avoid sex until treatment is finished and symptoms resolve. Retesting in three months is recommended due to high reinfection rates.