Chlamydial infections are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. The disease can be transmitted during sexual contact – vaginal, anal or oral. In many cases, the infection does not lead to the appearance of specific symptoms, which can delay the diagnosis. The infection is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. Its control can be achieved by taking appropriate antibiotics. All sexually active people are at some risk of chlamydia. Since the disease is more often asymptomatic, it is possible for a person to transmit it to their partner without knowing it. In some cases, weeks after sexual contact with a partner with chlamydia, uncharacteristic symptoms may appear. These include painful urination, unusual discharge from the vagina or penis, Women may experience abdominal pain, bleeding after intercourse, and abnormal bleeding between periods. In men, on the other hand, there may be pain and swelling of the testicles. Left untreated, chlamydia can lead to very serious problems, especially among women. Reproductive organs are affected, as a result of which the risk of infertility and ectopic pregnancy may increase. In pregnant women, the infection can cause premature birth. Other complications that can occur in women, if left untreated, include pelvic inflammatory disease and the onset of chronic pelvic pain. The risk of developing cervicitis, urethritis and proctitis is also increased. The risk of chlamydia can be lowered by taking preventive measures, which include the correct use of protection during sex (condoms), as well as sexual contact with only one partner who has been tested for chlamydia. Chlamydia trachomatis can also cause lymphogranuloma venereum. This is another type of disease that occurs in men. As a result of this disease, many outbreaks of proctitis are observed among homosexual and bisexual orientation. The presence of Chlamydia trachomatis is proven using a molecular test, microbiological examination and others. Samples taken can be from vaginal secretions or urine. Following the chlamydia treatment regimen prescribed by the doctor is very important to prevent the risk of complications. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential, as drug treatment controls the infection, but cannot affect permanent damage that has already occurred. References: https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia.htm https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/stdfact-chlamydia-detailed.htm https://www.who. int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chlamydia https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chlamydia/ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chlamydia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355349