Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affecting women worldwide.
The tricky part is that most women who have it don't feel sick at all: no pain, no obvious signs, nothing to warn you.
But it can damage the womb and fallopian tubes, making it harder to get pregnant later on or even putting a pregnancy at risk.
That's why it's important to know what chlamydia is, how it spreads, and why protecting yourself matters.
Keep reading to find out more!
How Women Get Chlamydia
Chlamydia spreads through sexual contact, and it doesn't always require full penetrative sex. Someone can pass it on without even knowing they're infected.
You can get chlamydia through:
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Unprotected vaginal sex is the most common way.
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During unprotected anal or oral sex, the bacteria can infect the rectum or throat.
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Sharing sex toys without cleaning them properly or using protection.
It's also important to note:
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Having more than one partner increases the risk, but even women in a monogamous relationship can get chlamydia if their partner is infected.
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Chlamydia is not spread by casual contact like hugging, sharing food, or using the same toilet.
In other words, anyone who is sexually active, even with just one partner, can get chlamydia if protection and regular testing are not part of the picture.
Why Chlamydia Is Dangerous for Women
The biggest problem with chlamydia is not just contracting it; it's what happens if it goes untreated.
Because most women don't have symptoms, the infection can quietly spread upward from the cervix to the womb and fallopian tubes. That's when the real damage begins.
Here's why doctors worry about untreated chlamydia:
Typical Symptoms (When They Show Up)
Most women with chlamydia don't notice anything unusual. However, when symptoms do appear, they can resemble everyday issues that are easy to overlook.
Some signs to look out for include:
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Unusual vaginal discharge (often with a strange smell).
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Pain or burning when you pee.
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Pain during sex or bleeding afterward.
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Lower belly or pelvic pain.
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Light bleeding between periods.
Because these symptoms can also be caused by other infections, the only way to know for sure is to get tested.
Testing and Diagnosis
The good news is, testing for chlamydia is quick and painless. Doctors usually check for chlamydia using:
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A simple urine test – you just pee in a cup, and the lab checks for the bacteria using sensitive methods.
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A swab from the cervix or vagina – especially during a routine check-up or if there are symptoms.
Health experts recommend:
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Women 25 years and older should also be tested annually if they're at increased risk (for example, new partner, multiple partners, or partner with an STI).
Treatment
The good news about chlamydia is that it's easily treatable once it's found. A simple course of antibiotics can clear the infection.
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The most commonly used medicines are azithromycin (a single dose) or doxycycline (taken for 7 days).
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For pregnant women, doctors usually prescribe azithromycin or amoxicillin, since doxycycline isn't safe during pregnancy.
But treatment doesn't stop with you alone. To prevent getting infected again:
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Your partner(s) must also be treated even if they don't have symptoms.
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Avoid sex until you and your partner have finished treatment.
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Doctors often recommend a repeat test after 3 months, just to make sure the infection is truly gone.
Prevention Tips
Chlamydia is common, but it's also one of the easiest infections to prevent if you take a few smart steps:
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Use condoms consistently. They may not be 100% foolproof, but they greatly reduce the risk.
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Get tested regularly if you're sexually active, especially if you're under 25 or have new partners.
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Be open with your partner. Both of you should know your STI status; it's part of caring for each other.
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Stick to one faithful partner who is also tested and uninfected.
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Don't ignore symptoms. Any unusual discharge, pain, or bleeding should be checked quickly.
Most importantly: don't feel ashamed about testing. It's a sign of strength and self-care, not a sign of weakness.
Protecting your reproductive health today protects your chances of a safe pregnancy and healthy baby tomorrow.
Conclusion
Chlamydia may not always show obvious signs, but its impact on women's reproductive health is far from silent.
Protecting fertility, reducing pregnancy complications, and ensuring healthier outcomes for mothers and babies depend on timely screening, treatment, and awareness.
What do you think should routine screening for chlamydia be made a priority for women's health programs in Nigeria? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Researched by Victoria Odueso
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