Chlamydia and infertility

This common bacterial infection currently affects almost three million people each year.

It's often called the 'silent disease', because it usually has no symptoms. If they do occur, they can include vaginal discharge and pelvic or abdominal pain (or both). Men with the condition may experience pain when urinating.

Chlamydia can be easily treated with antibiotics but if left untreated for a long period of time it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This is a severe infection of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes and it can result in infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

In pregnancy, Chlamyidia can cause preterm labor. It’s also possible for it to be passed on to a baby during the birth, and it can cause your baby to develop conjunctivitis and pneumonia. As a precaution, measures are taken to protect all newborn babies – just after birth, babies are given eye drops which contain an antibiotic that destroys Chlamydia.

You’ll be tested for Chlamydia during your pregnancy, at your first prenatal appointment. If you have any reason to think you may have contracted it after this initial test, ask to be retested during your third trimester as a precaution. You can best avoid it by avoiding sex with anyone other than your long-term partner or practicing safe sex.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.