Dear foster,

Usually, chlamydia has no symptoms. Seventy-five percent of women and 50 percent of men with chlamydia have no symptoms. Most people are not aware that they have the infection.

Only a clinician can diagnose chlamydia. If you believe you may have chlamydia, see a clinician or call 1-800-230-PLAN to find a Planned Parenthood health center near you.

When symptoms of chlamydia do occur, they may begin in as little as five to 10 days after infection.

When women have symptoms, they may experience

• bleeding between menstrual periods
• vaginal bleeding after intercourse
• abdominal pain
• painful intercourse
• low-grade fever
• painful urination
• the urge to urinate more than usual
• cervical or rectal inflammation
• abnormal vaginal discharge
• mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC) — a yellowish discharge from the cervix that may have a foul odor

When men have symptoms, they may experience

• pus or watery or milky discharge from the penis
• pain or burning feeling while urinating
• swollen or tender testicles
• rectal inflammation

In women and men, chlamydia may cause the rectum to itch and bleed. It can also result in a discharge and diarrhea. If it infects the eyes, chlamydia may cause redness, itching, and a discharge. If it infects the throat, chlamydia may cause soreness.

For more information, check out Chlamydia: Questions and Answers.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.