Chlamydia is the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in Norway, and it is estimated that 10 per cent of all young people between 15 and 25 years of age are infected. This disease does not always show any obvious symptoms, and more than half all women do not know that they are infected at all. This makes chlamydia extra dangerous for women, as there is a greater chance that the disease spreads to other parts of the body and causes serious complications.
What are signs and symptoms of chlamydia in women?
Women usually do not have unequivocal complaints or signs that give rise to a suspected disease, but in less than half of the cases, symptoms will occur in the form of:
Stomach and burning sensation of urination
Pain during intercourse
Bleeding during intercourse
Abnormal vaginal discharge with or without odor
Irregular bleeding outside of menstrual period
Itching and discomfort in the vagina
How do you diagnose chlamydia in women?
It is relatively easy to diagnose chlamydia, which is largely based on medical history, clinical findings and laboratory tests. The doctor will also ask you about a sexual history that involves questions about the number of sex partners and the circumstances that occurred – ie if it was random and if condom was used. A chlamydia test from the abdomen will also be sent to the laboratory for further investigation.
What complications can women get from chlamydia?
An untreated infection with chlamydia, regardless of gender, is very dangerous to the infected as it can result in serious complications. Pelvic inflammation is one of the most feared complications in women since it can cause severe infection with pain in the abdomen, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting and sudden fainting. This could ultimately cause permanent damage to the woman’s reproductive system with infertility as the last consequence.
How does women reduce the risk of infection with chlamydia?
It is important that you visit your doctor if you suspect infection with chlamydia while taking all precautions to prevent yourself and others from being infected. This can be done by reducing the number of stranger sex partners, while encouraging your partner for safe sex with condoms.