Chlamydia

What exactly is chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium. You can contract the bacterium through unprotected sexual contact, such as vaginal, anal or oral sex. Chlamydia is a common infection, particularly among young people.

How does chlamydia usually progress?

Chlamydia often develops without obvious symptoms. Many people do not realise they are infected but can still transmit the bacterium to others. If symptoms do occur, they usually develop within one to three weeks after infection. Without treatment, chlamydia can remain in the body for a longer period and may sometimes lead to serious complications, such as infertility.

What are the symptoms and typical complaints of chlamydia?

Most people with chlamydia have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, women may experience increased or unusual vaginal discharge, pain when urinating, bleeding between periods or after sex, and lower abdominal pain. Men may experience a burning sensation when urinating, discharge from the penis or pain in the scrotum. Sometimes symptoms are very mild and can easily go unnoticed.

How can you contract chlamydia?

You can contract chlamydia through sexual contact with someone who is infected. This can occur through vaginal, anal or oral contact. The bacterium can also be transmitted through sex toys that have not been properly cleaned. Chlamydia is particularly common among sexually active teenagers and young adults.

How common is chlamydia?

Chlamydia is the most common STI in the Netherlands. Tens of thousands of new cases are diagnosed every year. Young people between the ages of 16 and 25 are particularly at risk.

Are there specific risk groups for chlamydia?

Young people and young adults, people with multiple or changing sexual partners, and people who do not use condoms have a higher risk of chlamydia. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are also considered a higher-risk group.

How can you prevent chlamydia?

You can reduce the risk of chlamydia by practising safer sex. This means using a condom during all forms of sexual contact, including oral sex. It is also advisable to get tested regularly if you have multiple or changing sexual partners.

Which hygiene or behavioural measures reduce the risk of chlamydia?

Always use a condom during sex, including when sharing sex toys. Clean sex toys thoroughly after use. Talk to your partner about STIs and get tested when starting a new relationship or if you have had unprotected sex.

How can you prevent further transmission if you already have chlamydia?

If you have chlamydia, it is important to avoid sexual contact until treatment has been completed and the infection has been cleared. Inform your sexual partners so that they can also get tested and treated. This helps prevent further transmission of the infection.

Can chlamydia be treated?

Chlamydia can be treated effectively with antibiotics. Treatment usually involves a course of medication taken over several days. It is important to complete the full course, even if you start feeling better. After treatment, you may have another test to make sure the infection has cleared.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.