Chlamydia 101: Everything You Need to Know About Clamydia Symptoms and Treatment

Silent yet Pervasive: 80% of infected women and 50% of infected men with Chlamydia trachomatis show no symptoms, making it a "silent" yet widespread infection.
High Stakes for Untreated Cases: Chlamydia poses a risk of infertility if left untreated, with 2-3 million new cases reported annually in the U.S.
Bacterial Behavior: The bacteria invade human cells to multiply and eventually cause the host cell to burst, further spreading the infection.
Mild but Indicative Symptoms: Genital discharge and discomfort can be early indicators of infection in both sexes.
Beyond Genitals: Chlamydia can also affect eyes, causing trachoma, and the lymphatic system, leading to Lymphogranuloma venereum.
Global Reach: About 2% of the global population is affected by this STI, although it is not the most prevalent.
High-Risk Activities: Unprotected sex and having multiple partners significantly increase the risk of contracting the disease.
Gold Standard of Diagnosis: NAATs are the most reliable form of diagnosis, with a 97% effectiveness rate for the antibiotic Azithromycin and 98% for Doxycycline.
CDC's Guidelines: Annual screening is recommended for sexually active women under 25 to catch early infections.
Treating the Network: Beyond the patient, treating sexual partners is crucial to prevent reinfection and effectively manage the disease.