Causes of Chlamydia

Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and is one of the most common causes of STI infections in the Netherlands.

Because many infected individuals experience no symptoms, the bacterium can spread unnoticed. As a result, many people don't know exactly when or from whom they contracted the infection.

What causes chlamydia?

The direct cause of chlamydia is an infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. As soon as this bacterium comes into contact with sensitive mucous membranes, an infection can occur.

The bacterium can settle in various parts of the body, including:

• The urethra.
• The cervix.
• The anus.
• The throat.
• In rare cases, the eyes.

Not everyone who gets infected develops symptoms, so the infection often goes unnoticed.

How is the bacterium transmitted?

Chlamydia is primarily transmitted through sexual contact with someone who is infected.

Transmission can occur during:

• Vaginal sex.
• Anal sex.
• Oral sex.
• Direct contact between infected mucous membranes.

Because many people have no symptoms, someone can transmit the bacterium without knowing they are infected.

Can you get chlamydia from someone without symptoms?

Yes. This happens regularly.

A person does not need to have symptoms to be contagious. Precisely because many infections are asymptomatic, chlamydia spreads relatively easily.

Therefore, it's important not to rely solely on symptoms when you've been at risk.

Is one instance of unprotected sex enough?

Yes. In some cases, one instance of unprotected sexual contact can be enough to get infected.

The chance of transmission depends on various factors, but the risk always exists when a partner is infected.

Who is at higher risk for chlamydia?

Anyone who is sexually active can contract chlamydia. However, some situations increase the risk of infection.

Examples include:

• Unprotected sex.
• Multiple sexual partners.
• A new sexual partner.
• A partner with an STI.
• No regular STI checks despite increased risk.

An increased risk does not automatically mean someone will get infected, but it does increase the chance of transmission.

Can you get chlamydia from kissing?

Kissing is not considered a common way for chlamydia to be transmitted.

The bacterium primarily spreads through sexual contact involving mucous membranes.

Can you get chlamydia from a toilet seat?

No. Chlamydia is not transmitted via toilet seats, swimming pools, towels, or normal daily contact.

The bacterium survives only for a limited time outside the body and is almost always spread through sexual contact.

Why is chlamydia so common?

A major reason is that many infections cause no symptoms.

As a result, people often don't know they are infected and can unknowingly pass the bacterium on to others. This causes chlamydia to spread relatively easily within sexually active groups.

How can you prevent an infection?

While no method offers complete protection, you can significantly reduce the risk.

• Use condoms during sex.
• Use protection during oral sex.
• Get tested regularly if you are at risk.
• Inform partners of a positive test result.
• Complete a full course of treatment if an infection is diagnosed.

When should you get tested?

Testing is recommended if you have had unprotected sex, experience symptoms that might indicate an STI, or if a partner has tested positive for chlamydia.

Even without symptoms, testing may be advisable if you have been at risk.

Frequently asked questions about the cause of chlamydia

What causes chlamydia?

Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.

Can you get infected from one sexual encounter?

Yes. One instance of unprotected sexual contact can be sufficient for an infection.

Can you get chlamydia from kissing?

Kissing is not considered a common route of infection for chlamydia.

Can you get chlamydia from a toilet seat?

No. Chlamydia is almost always transmitted through sexual contact.

Can someone without symptoms infect me?

Yes. Many people with chlamydia have no symptoms but can still transmit the bacterium.

Know the cause, limit the risk

Chlamydia results from an infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Because the infection often has no symptoms, it is important to be aware of risks and get tested when there is cause to do so. Early detection helps prevent further spread and possible complications.