Are You At Risk Of Becoming Infected By This Common Std

The sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is chlamydia is caused by the bacteria trachomatis. In the UK and the United States it is the most commonly sexually transmitted disease. It effects both men and women although, women have a higher risk of being infected.

It is estimated that over 2 million people are infected with this disease each year. A major issue with this particular STD is that many who have the disease have no clue they are infected. This is mainly due to the fact that carriers do not show any symptoms or outward signs that they have the disease.

It is estimated that more than 50% of people who are infected do not show any noticeable signs that they have the disease. For this reason, many people could be infecting their partners and other people completely unaware that they are doing it.

The main reason for contracting this STD is by having sex without a condom with an infected partner. Therefore, it is important to always use a condom with a new partner. Another measure is to have you and your partner tested to see if one or both of you are infected. If both are clear of the disease then, they can have sexual relations without a condom.

When an infection is not treated for a while the risk of more serious health issues can increase. These complications could lead to the person becoming infertile. In women, untreated infections can lead to conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This particular condition can result in long term and even permanent damage to the women's reproductive organs and chronic pelvic pain.

As pointed out earlier the symptom's of this disease may not occur in many infected people however, there are certain warning signs to watch out for. In women these can include cystitis,lower abdominal pain and a vaginal discharge. These symptoms can be caused by other health complication's therefore, it is recommended that you should have a test to determine the real cause.

In men, the signs of an infection can take the form a discolored sticky fluid from the tip of the male genital. The tip of the penis can also become very sensitive and in certain cases become sore and inflamed. Other symptoms can include a painful sensation when passing water. It has been known that the eyes can also become infected and causing conjunctivitis. Testing can involve a swab sample been taken from the infected area. Alternatively, a urine test can prove to be a less invasive method of being tested for an infection.

The good news is that this sexually transmitted disease can be made curable. A course of antibiotics has a high success rate in clearing the condition within 4 to 6 weeks. These can be prescribed by your local doctor.