Chlamydia, like gonorrhea, is transmitted through vaginal, oral and anal sex. It is the most common STI in the United States, with an estimated 4 million cases each year.  Risk factors for becoming infected with chlamydia are similar to those for gonorrhea.  

For women, common signs and symptoms of chlamydia can include: increased vaginal discharge, dull pelvic pain, feelings of "heaviness" in the pelvic area, possible pain with urination or intercourse, and possibly break through bleeding.   However, most women do not have any noticeable symptoms.  Men may also notice some pain with urination as well as discharge from the urethra.

Complications associated with untreated chlamydia can include PID and altered fertility. Specifically in women, an untreated infection may spread to the fallopian tubes, resulting in tubal scarring infertility, and a higher incidence of ectopic pregnancies. 

Screening and treatment for chlamydia can easily be obtained at Women's Health.  Treatment of chlamydia typically includes oral antibiotics.  If you think you might be pregnant, please let your healthcare provider know as some medications may be harmful during pregnancy. She will provide a medication that is safe to take during pregnancy. 

It is important that all sexual partners be treated.   Male partners are screened and treated on the Primary Care side of Student Health.

http://www.cdc.gov