CHLAMYDIA

By Joseph Hazan,M.D., FACOG

It is the most frequently reported STD and

there are 2.5 million new cases in the US every year.

This STD is most common in persons under 25

and is transmitted during any type of sexual interaction.

Usually there is no sign of infection.

It can infect the newborn as it passes through the

birth canal.

These newborns, if untreated can have eye

or lung infections a week later.

In women it can cause heavy yellow discharge,

painful urination, pain during intercourse and spotting,

although, typically there are no symptoms.

It is detected by culture test and treated with antibiotics.

It is important to treat it before it causes PID

(Pelvic inflammatory disease) which predispose to

infertility and ectopic pregnancy,

because it may result in tubal scars.