For Teens: Understanding Chlamydia
Chlamydia is an STD (sexually transmitted disease) that spreads when body fluids are passed during sex. Signs of chlamydia are sometimes hard to notice. So get checked if you think you might have it. Chlamydia can be cured. But if it’s not treated soon enough, it can cause sterility.
What to Look For
Chlamydia symptoms may appear within a few days or weeks after you catch it. The symptoms can also change over time. Early on, common signs include:
Discharge from the penis or vagina.
Pain or burning during urination.
Pain and discharge from the rectum if chlamydia was caught during anal sex.
Chlamydia can be treated and cured with medication. A single dose is often all that’s needed. Your partner also needs to be treated. Otherwise, they can pass the disease back to you. And don’t have sex until you’re told it’s okay.
If You Don’t Get Treated
Chlamydia can spread and cause damage that keeps you from being able to have kids. Here are some warning signs of that damage:
Males can have continued discharge, pain and swelling in the testicles, and fever.
Females can get an infection that leads to PID.
What Is PID?
PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) is an infection in women. It can cause mild or severe symptoms. These include pain in the lower belly, fever, and pain during sex. Over time, PID can damage the reproductive organs and cause sterility.