Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can affect the cervix, urethra, rectum and pharynx. It often produces no symptoms, which facilitates unknowing transmission.
When symptoms do appear, they may include abnormal discharge, pain on urination or lower abdominal pain in women, and urethral discharge or testicular discomfort in men. However, the absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of infection or risk of complications.
Without treatment, chlamydia can cause complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease and fertility problems in women. Early diagnosis through specific testing and antibiotic treatment can resolve the infection and prevent its transmission.