Chlamydia in Males

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases among teenagers in the U.S. Caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis, it most often starts as an infection of the urethra. The urethra is the tube urine passes through in the penis.

You must see a doctor to check if you have chlamydia.

What are the symptoms?

Some symptoms of chlamydia include:

• discharge (drip) from the penis that is usually white or clear
• pain or burning when going to the bathroom
• having to go to the bathroom a lot
• pain or swelling in and around the testicles.

Twenty percent of men with chlamydia have no symptoms.

How long will it last?

The outcome of a chlamydial infection depends on:

• the length of time you have been infected
• how bad the infection is
• the number of previous chlamydial infections you have had.

If only the urethra is infected, proper treatment should clear up the infection in about 10 days.

If not treated, chlamydia can lead to scarring of the urethra, inability to urinate normally, and inflammation of the testicles. Testicle inflammation can cause you to not be able to have children.

What is the treatment?

1. Antibiotics

   Simple chlamydial infections are treated with antibiotics, available by prescription.

   Your treatment is ______________________________________

   ________________________________________________________.

2. Contacts

   Tell everyone with whom you have been sexually active in the last 3 months about your infection. They must also be treated even if they have no symptoms. Do not have sex until both you and your partner have finished all the medication.

3. Follow-up

   You should be rechecked for chlamydia 3 to 4 months after treatment. Make an appointment with your health care provider.

4. Prevention

   Because chlamydia is sexually transmitted, there are ways that you can help prevent this infection. Not having sex (abstinence) is the best method of prevention. Use of condoms is the next best method. In addition, you are less likely to get a sexually transmitted disease if you have just one sexual partner.

   If you are sexually active, you should be screened for chlamydia at least once a year.

When should I call my health care provider?

Call during office hours if:

• Your symptoms get worse.
• You have other questions or concerns.