Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. While it is considered a serious STI, it can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics if it is caught early. However, if left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems such as:
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Chlamydia can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which can lead to scarring and damage to the reproductive organs. This can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Epididymitis: In men, chlamydia can cause inflammation of the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm from the testicle), which can cause pain, swelling, and in rare cases, can lead to infertility.
- Reactive arthritis: In some cases, chlamydia can cause a type of arthritis that affects the joints, eyes, and urethra.
- Increased risk of HIV: Having chlamydia can increase the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
- Spread to others: If left untreated, chlamydia can be spread to sexual partners and can cause infection in them.
It’s worth noting that, many people who are infected with chlamydia do not have any symptoms, so it is important to get tested and treated if you suspect you have been exposed to the infection, and to avoid having sex until the treatment is finished and the infection is completely cleared. Additionally, it’s recommended