What is Chlamydia?

• Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection among 15-24 year old Americans. In 2016 over 1.5 million new cases were diagnosed in the US, although this number is assumed to be underreported due to many who have it are symptomless and as such do not get diagnosed.

• A chlamydia infection doesn’t always result in symptoms, so regular STI testing is necessary to assess if it is present in sexually active people.

• For those with vaginas, symptoms can include a burning sensation when urinating and/or abnormal vaginal discharge. In those with penises, symptoms can include: a discharge from the penis, a burning sensation when urinating and/or pain and swelling in one or both testicles.

• Rectal and throat infections are also possible, both with or without symptoms, and can cause pain, discharge and/or bleeding.

What are the risks associated with Chlamydia?

• Chlamydia is transmitted via barrierless contact by engaging in oral, anal or PIV (penis in vagina) sex. 

• Sex acts involving barrierless contact between genitals, oral sex, and/or anal sex can lead to exposure to chlamydia. Ejaculation is not necessary for transmission.

• The bacteria that causes chlamydia cannot exist outside of the body for more than a few minutes at most.

• Left untreated, Chlamydia infections may result in sterility or have other long term consequences.

How can transmission of Chlamydia be prevented?

• Transmission can be prevented through testing. You can only contract Chlamydia if someone else has it. Make sure to always check your scene partners availability in the PASS system to reduce the risk of being exposed to Chlamydia and other STIs.

• Testing for Chlamydia involves urine specimens, swabs of the throat, vagina and rectum. Chlamydia bacteria are localized at the site of infection, not testing all sites of possible exposure can miss cases of the infection.

• Condoms and other barriers can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of exposure in the area that they cover--which is why testing is so important.

• There is currently no vaccine for chlamydia. 

What treatments are available for those who have contracted Chlamydia?

• Chlamydia is treated with medication available through prescription from your doctor. 

More resources:

• The CDC has information related to Chlamydia, prevention methods, and access to treatment. 

• Planned Parenthood can direct you to information surrounding Chlamydia prevention. 

• Full panel STI testing and treatment is available at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Regardless of your ability to pay, the Los Angeles LGBT Center provides a sex-positive, sex worker safe clinic.