Untreated infection can persist for months or even years and there's a strong link between asymptomatic (no symptoms) infection and reduced fertility.

Up to 30% of untreated cases go on to develop PID
10% have ectopic pregnancies, in which a fertilised egg becomes stuck and implants in a Fallopian tube
Damage to the fallopian tubes can cause a blockage that prevents sperm and eggs coming into contact. This cause of infertility is easily missed because of 'mild' or absent symptoms.

PID occurs when the bacteria spread up the vagina to the cervix (the neck of the womb) damaging the reproductive tubes which lead to the ovaries. It can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Although PID can result from other infections, about 45% of cases are caused by genital chlamydia infection and unfortunately, the long-term complications are difficult to treat.

Both men and women with genital chlamydia infection can also develop painful arthritis due to inflammation of the joints.

Diagnosing and treating chlamydia

Often a swab is taken from the genital tract for examination at a laboratory, but this isn't the most reliable means of diagnosing chlamydia.
Recently, more accurate (95% sensitive) urine tests have been introduced which are carried out about 2 weeks after exposure.
Uncomplicated chlamydial infection is treated with an effective antibiotic given twice a day for up to 10 days or as a single one-off dose.
Pregnant women who have an uncomplicated infection of chlamydia can also receive treatment for seven days without risk to their baby
If patients have symptoms and signs of chlamydial infection, doctors usually recommend starting treatment before a laboratory confirms the diagnosis because of the serious consequences of the condition.
Partners are usually treated as well.

Remember that the best way to protect yourself against chlamydial infection is to use condoms and reduce the number of partners you sleep with. If you are concerned about any abnormal symptoms, go to your GP immediately and you may be able to prevent the long-term consequences of chlamydia developing.

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Chlamydia