Chlamydia in Women

Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs among women. What makes this infection insidious is that many women experience no symptoms. As a result, an infection can go unnoticed for a long time, while the bacteria is present in the body.

Precisely because symptoms are often absent, chlamydia is frequently only discovered during an STI test or after a partner has tested positive. Timely diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent possible complications.

What is chlamydia?

Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. The infection is usually transmitted through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

In women, the bacterium is often found in the cervix, but an infection can also occur in the urethra, throat, or anus.

How common is chlamydia in women?

Chlamydia is one of the most diagnosed STIs in the Netherlands. Sexually active adolescents and young adults are particularly at an increased risk of infection.

Because many women do not develop symptoms, the actual number of infections is likely higher than the number of diagnosed cases.

Symptoms of chlamydia in women

A large proportion of women with chlamydia are unaware of the infection. When symptoms do arise, they can sometimes be vague or difficult to recognize.

Possible symptoms include:

• More vaginal discharge than usual.
• Pain or a burning sensation during urination.
• Lower abdominal pain.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Bleeding between periods.
• Bleeding after sex.

These complaints can also have other causes. A test is therefore the only way to confirm with certainty whether chlamydia is present.

Can you have chlamydia without symptoms?

Yes. In fact, many women with chlamydia experience no symptoms at all.

As a result, an infection can remain present unnoticed. Although symptoms are absent, the bacteria can still be transmitted to sexual partners and in some cases cause health problems.

When should you get tested?

A test is recommended when:

• You have had unprotected sex.
• A sexual partner has tested positive for chlamydia.
• You have symptoms that could indicate an STI.
• You have had multiple sexual partners.
• You want certainty after a possible risk situation.

Even without symptoms, testing can be sensible if you have been at risk.

How is chlamydia tested in women?

In women, a vaginal swab or a urine sample is usually used. The collected material is then examined in a laboratory.

Modern laboratory tests are highly reliable when performed at the correct time.

What happens after a positive test?

If a test reveals that you have chlamydia, the infection can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics.

It is important to complete the full course of treatment and follow any advice from a doctor or practitioner. Additionally, it is wise to inform recent sexual partners so that they can also get tested.

Complications of untreated chlamydia

When an infection remains present for a longer period without treatment, it can have health consequences.

Possible complications include:

• Inflammation of the uterus or fallopian tubes.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Chronic abdominal pain.
• Reduced fertility.
• An increased risk of an ectopic pregnancy.

Not every woman experiences these, but timely detection and treatment help to reduce these risks.

Chlamydia and pregnancy

Even during pregnancy, it is important to take a chlamydia infection seriously. An untreated infection can pose risks for both mother and child.

If you suspect you are infected and are pregnant, contact a doctor or midwife for advice.

Can you get re-infected?

Yes. A previous infection does not provide protection against a new infection.

Even after successful treatment, you can contract chlamydia again if you come into contact with the bacteria again.

Frequently asked questions about chlamydia in women

What are the first symptoms of chlamydia in women?

Common complaints include increased vaginal discharge, pain during urination, abdominal pain, and bleeding between periods.

Can you have chlamydia without symptoms?

Yes. Many women notice nothing of an infection.

Is chlamydia dangerous for women?

When the infection is treated promptly, serious consequences can usually be avoided. However, an untreated infection can cause complications.

Can chlamydia affect fertility?

In some cases, a long-term untreated infection can damage the fallopian tubes, which can affect fertility.

Can I get re-infected?

Yes. A previous infection does not protect against a new infection.

Timely testing provides clarity

Because chlamydia in women often occurs without symptoms, a test is often the only way to get certainty. Have you been at risk or are you concerned about a possible infection? Then timely testing can help to quickly detect an infection and prevent potential complications.