Chlamydia trachomatis are the bacteria responsible for causing the Chlamydia infection. This disease can be transmitted through sexual contact including anal, oral and vaginal sex. In fact this is an extremely common sexually transmitted infection in America. Those individuals who indulge in sexual contact with multiple partners are more likely to contract this infection.

The symptoms associated with the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium may not exist in all cases. In some cases however some symptoms or signs may be identified. These symptoms include discharge from the vagina, penis and the rectum along with a burning sensation while urinating. Infected men may also experience testicular swelling and women may experience pain following intercourse.

Other symptoms associated with this condition include lower abdominal pain and bleeding in between menstrual cycles. The Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium can result in damage to the reproductive organs of a woman if timely medical treatment and intervention is not sought. The possible complications among women because of this infection in the absence of treatment include pelvic inflammatory disease. Women may also suffer from problems like ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

In the absence of treatment for this condition the possible complications in men include epididymis and sterility. As the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria are transmitted through sexual contact with infected secretions following safe sex practices is crucial. Condoms should be used while indulging in sexual contact. A mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected person can help in avoiding this condition.

Diagnosis of this infection is done through examination or testing of the secretions. A monoclonal antibody test or DNA probe test along with other tests like cell culture may be used to identify this condition. Treatment for this infection includes taking antibiotics like azithromycin and doxycycline.

If an infected woman becomes pregnant then she should bring this to the notice of her physician and seek medical help as the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her newborn child. An infected person should avoid sexual intercourse till the treatment is completed otherwise the possibility of re-infection can increase.