CHLAMYDIA

Chlamydia infection can be asymptomatic. Otherwise, symptoms generally appear 1 to 3 week(s) after infection: 

• Unusual vaginal discharge, pain in the lower abdomen and irritation of the vulva;
• Unusual discharge from the penis and penile irritation;
• Pain when urinating and possible bleeding;
• Anal pain with occasional discharge of fluid.

At vaginal level, asymptomatic chlamydia infection can lead to complications such as infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes, which can cause infertility. Screening is therefore essential. 

In the throat, penis and anus, asymptomatic infection is generally of no consequence, but screening is recommended to prevent transmission to partners with a uterus.

Lymphogranulomatosis venereum (LGV) is an infection caused by bacteria of the chlamydia family. It most often appears as rectitis (inflammation of the rectum) in men who have sex with men.

Chlamydia screening is performed : 

• Via vaginal, anal and throat smears;
• By means of a "first jet*" urine test.

In the absence of symptoms, screening for chlamydia is generally no longer indicated in penis people who have relations only with other penis people. 

if you test positive, remember to tell your partner(s) so that they can be treated. You should also protect yourself and get tested every time you change sexual partners.

*Totest effectively for chlamydia, the sample should ideally be taken from the first few drops without having urinated at least two hours before sampling.

Chlamydia can be treated with appropriate antibiotics. However, treatment does not prevent re-infection later in life!

To protect yourself from chlamydia, you can use condoms (internal or external), a latex square or a latex or nitrile glove.

Condoms reduce the risk of exposure, but do not offer total protection, as chlamydia can be transmitted during sexual touching* and oral sex (practices which are less often protected).

*mutual masturbationand sexual friction

Only 2 gonorrhea/chlamydia tests are reimbursed per year in Belgium...