3 Signs You Might Have Chlamydia
In Australia, there are approximately 260,000 Australians currently living with Chlamydia (also known as Chlamydia trachomatis). And with condom use with sexual partners on the decline, many more are at risk of the sexually transmitted disease dubbed the 'silent infection'. Unfortunately, around 50 percent of men and 80 percent of women are diagnosed without symptoms, leaving them at risk of permanent damage.
With many cases of the sexually transmitted infection resulting in no symptoms, untreated chlamydia can put men at risk of pain and swelling in one or both testicles or more seriously, infertility.
Unlike some sexually transmitted infections, Chlamydia doesn't discriminate. Men can catch chlamydia from having vaginal sex, anal sex and also through oral sex - basically, all means of sexual contact.
While condoms are not 100 per cent effective and don't guarantee keeping away sexually transmitted infections, using protection greatly lowers your risk.
These are the most common symptoms of a chlamydia infection to look out for. However given that it's common for symptoms not to show, it’s important to get regular screenings, practice safe sex and maintain good sexual health.
- discharge coming from penis
- discomfort during urination
- swollen and sore testicles.
If you are under the age of 25 and sexually active, it's important that you have routine chlamydia check-ups. If it's detected early enough, the good news is chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.
