Chlamydial pelvic infection
 AGE Affects sexually active women of any age |  GENDER Affects women. Men can carry the infection |
 LIFESTYLE Unprotected sex with multiple partners is a risk factor |  GENETICS Not a significant factor |
Chlamydial pelvic infection is an infection of the genital tract in women that is usually symptomless.
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The bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK. In women, the most common site of infection is the cervix, and the bacterium can cause serious inflammation of the reproductive organs. In men, chlamydial infection is the most common cause of nongonococcal urethritis.
A baby exposed to chlamydial infection during delivery may develop conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, and lung infections such as pneumonia.
What are the symptoms of chlamydial infection?
Most women are symptom-free, but if symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge.
- Bleeding between periods or after sex.
- Frequent urge to pass urine.
- Pain in the lower abdomen.
- Pain on deep penetration during sex.
Left untreated, chlamydial infection can spread from the cervix to the fallopian tubes (see Pelvic inflammatory disease), and is a common cause of infertility in women. The infection sometimes triggers a form of arthritis (see Reactive arthritis).
What might be done?
Chlamydial infection may not be suspected until symptoms develop or a partner is tested for an STI. It may also be suspected during investigations for infertility, which can be a complication of untreated infection. For this reason, screening is important for sexually active women at high risk, including those who have been treated previously for an STI or who have multiple partners.
If you think that you or your partner has a chlamydial infection you should go to a clinic that specializes in STIs or consult your own doctor. In women, diagnosis is confirmed by taking a swab from the cervix. Treatment is with antibiotics. Even if symptom-free, partners should be tested and treated.
Can chlamydial infection be prevented?
You can reduce your risk of infection by following safe sex measures (see Preventing STIs). You and your partner should abstain from sexual contact until treatment has been completed.
BMA Complete Family Health Guide
Copyright © 2005 Dorling Kindersley
Posted 04.05.2011
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