Kulsum International Hospital

Chlamydia

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Chlamydia is caused by bacteria and is easily treated with antibiotics. Because many people have no symptoms, testing is important for anyone at risk.

Symptoms

  • Often no symptoms
  • Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
  • Pain or burning when passing urine
  • Bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Pain in the lower abdomen or testicles

Causes and risk factors

It spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex and can pass from mother to baby during birth. Having new or multiple partners increases the risk.

Diagnosis

A urine test or swab detects the infection.

Treatment

It is treated with a short course of antibiotics. Partners should also be tested and treated, and sex should be avoided until treatment is complete. Untreated chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for testing if you have symptoms, a partner with an infection, or have had unprotected sex.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Chlamydia.