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CHLAMYDIA PREVENTION

Chlamydia is one of the most frequent sexually transmitted diseases on a global level. It is transmitted fairly easily and it is often symptomless, which contributes to its reputation as the “silent disease“. There are several effective ways of Chlamydia prevention, which every sexually active adult must be familiar with.

SAFE SEX

Using protection during every sexual intercourse is essential in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. In the case of Chlamydia prevention, latex male condoms are considered the most reliable source of protection, since they prevent the exchange of bodily fluids – semen and vaginal secretion, within which the bacteria Chlamydia trichomatum may be situated. Polyurethane condoms and diaphragms are also recommended, but do not guarantee the same degree of protection against Chlamydia.

AVOIDING PROMISCUOUS BEHAVIOR

Chlamydia is most often reported among individuals engaging in frequent sexual intercourse with different persons, as is the case with any other sexually transmitted disease. Furthermore, before engaging in sexual intercourse within a monogamous relationships, it is necessary to ask the partner about his/her history of sexually transmitted diseases, including Chlamydia. Chlamydia is infamous for its tendency to reemerge even after it has been successfully treated, owing to its highly infectious character.

AVOIDING SEXUAL INTERCOURSE WITH PERSONS PREVIOUSLY INFECTED WITH CHLAMYDIA

If you are about to engage in a sexual relationship with an individual who had a history of Chlamydia, you should bear in mind that the risk doesn’t cede to exist even after the disease has been successfully treated.

REGULAR SCREENINGS

Experts in the field of venereal diseases consider pregnant women and young, sexually active adults aged under 25 the target groups for Chlamydia testing. For the purposes of Chlamydia prevention, annual Chlamydia screening is advised. These tests are considered extremely reliable indicators of the presence of the Chlamydia trichomatum bacteria, since infected persons display no symptoms in the great majority of cases (70 – 80 % of women and 50 % of men) and are unlikely to seek medical assistance.

GETTING ACQUAINTED ABOUT THE NATURE OF THE DISEASE

It is logical to assume that knowing about Chlamydia, its symptoms and possible consequences is an essential step in Chlamydia prevention and combating the disease, should the infection take place.

REACT PROMPTLY

Should you feel any symptoms, like a burning or painful sensation during urination, unusual vaginal or penile discharge, abdominal pain, bleeding during intercourse (in women), swelling of testicles (in men) etc., you should immediately ask medical assistance and undergo tests for various sexually transmitted diseases, since Chlamydia is often accompanied by other diseases. It is of great importance to inform your sexual partner about any symptoms you may be experiencing or of whether you have been diagnosed with Chlamydia, so that he/she can go undergo tests.

All in all, Chlamydia prevention is a multi-faceted process and requires a certain degree of engagement and consideration. However, as the disease has many adverse implications on one’s health, precaution is of great importance.