A Review of Chlamydia
Chlamydia, a sexually transmitted disease (STI), is caused by bacteria. With an estimated 3,000,000 cases per year, it is the most prevalent STI among American youth. Safe sex can prevent Chlamydia by using condoms, and having your STIs tested frequently. It can cause serious complications such as Infertility and pelvic inflammation disease.
What's Chlamydia?
Chlamydia can be a form of bacteria and cause an STI. The infection can be spread by sexual contact. The symptoms include abdominal pain, pain in the genital area, and pain when you urinate. Although the infection is easily managed with antibiotics it can lead to serious health issues if not treated.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly three million Americans are infected each year with chlamydia according to the CDC. Younger women between the ages of 15 and 24 are at greatest risk. They account for nearly two-thirds (or more) of all cases. The CDC also reports that chlamydial infection is more prevalent in some racial or ethnic groups like Native Americans and African Americans.
Chlamydia: Common Causes
Unprotected sexual contact can spread Chlamydia. These include oral, vaginal and anal sex as well as skin to skin contact. You can also get chlamydia by sharing sex toys and other items that are infected.
Chlamydia is able to spread, even though the person infected doesn't have symptoms. It is possible to transmit the disease without even knowing that you are infected. It is therefore important to use safe sex, and have your STIs tested frequently.
Chlamydia: Common Treatments
Antibiotics can effectively treat Chlamydia. Doxycycline is the most common antibiotic prescribed. It is usually taken two times daily for seven days. You may also use other antibiotics such as azithromycin or erythromycin. Even if symptoms are gone, it is crucial to continue taking the prescribed medication.Sometimes doctors will suggest "watchful waiting", where the patient's symptoms are monitored and no treatment is administered. Patients with mild to no symptoms may find this helpful.
Experts' Views on Chlamydia
Experts are unanimous in their belief that chlamydia can be a serious issue in America and must be treated seriously. The American Sexual Health Association states that chlamydia has been reported as "the most common bacterial STI in America." It also suggests regular testing and condom use to lower the chance of getting it.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that all sexually active women below the age of 25 have an annual screening for chlamydia. To reduce complications, they recommend pregnant women being screened early for chlamydia.
Use natural remedies and tips
There aren't any natural cures for chlamydia. However, you can reduce the chance of being infected. Safe sex is achieved by using condoms whenever you have sex. Avoid having sex in public with more than one partner, which increases the risk of contracting an STI. Finally, make sure you get tested for STIs regularly and that your partner is also tested.
It is crucial to get checked out immediately if you think you may have chlamydia. Talk to your doctor about all aspects of your sexual history so that they can offer you the most accurate advice regarding how to treat it.