| In order to prevent contracting a
sexually transmitted disease, annual physical check-up is recommended;
particularly for sexually active adults 20 and over. Moreover,
annual screenings are recommended for older women with certain
risk factors, multiple sex partners or a new sexual companion.
The long term effects of Chlamydia
are unusual in the male gender. In certain cases, the infection
may spread to the epididymis (the tube that transports sperm
from the testis). In a few cases fever coupled with pain have
been reported; however, there are not many cited cased of sterility.
Other infrequent cases of genital Chlamydia
infections may trigger arthritis followed by an inflammation
of the urethra and eye and skin lesions.
In newborn babies, Chlamydia is one of the
major causes of early infant pneumonia and pink eye (conjunctivitis).
Laboratory tests may be conducted to diagnose
chlamydia. The tests may analyze urine, a specimen collected
from the cervix or penis.
The treatment of Chlamydia is curable or treatable
with antibiotics. The most prevalently prescribed medications
include a single dose of azithromycin or weekly usage of doxycycline.
Patients diagnosed with HIV should be administered
the same treatment as individuals who do not have HIV.
Until the Chlamydia infection is cleared entirely,
individuals afflicted with the STD should not engage in sexual
intercourse.
Multiple Chlamydia infections may render a
women susceptible to permanently damaging their reproductive
system or even infertility.
Between three to four months preceding chlamydia
infection, a reevaluation is recommended to ensure that they
have not been re-infected by an untreated sex partner.
Abstinence along with latex condoms are the
best ways to avoid contracting Chlamydia and other sexually
transmitted diseases.
To learn more about sexually transmitted diseases
such as Chlamydia visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) at www.cdc.gov/std
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