Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD). Although it can be easily treated, it often remains symptomless which is why it has been termed as the ‘silent infection’.
What are common chlamydia symptoms in men?
It is estimated that around half of all men who get chlamydia don’t notice any symptoms. If there are symptoms, the following are most common:
- White, cloudy or watery discharge from the penis;
- Noticeable discomfort or pain during urination;
- Pain in the testicles;
The symptoms listed above occur only if chlamydia has been caught through unprotected vaginal or anal sex.
Chlamydia can also infect the throat and rectum. These are acquired through sexual activities like oral or anal sex with an infected person.
Chlamydia symptoms usually appear between one and three weeks after catching it. Some men experience symptoms much later than the common time period, and again, around half of men who have caught chlamydia don’t experience any symptoms.
How can I prevent chlamydia?
It is easy to avoid catching the infection - just use a condom every time you have sex. Before you have unprotected sex, make sure both you and your new partner get tested for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases. Even if neither of you has any symptoms, it is possible that you carry chlamydia or a different STI.
Common misconceptions about chlamydia in men
Myth: Male chlamydia always causes symptoms.
Truth: Chlamydia is often symptomless - this goes for men and women.
Myth: Chlamydia can only make women infertile.
Truth: Chlamydia can also have a negative impact on male fertility, as it can lower the sperm count and damage the quality of the sperm.
Myth: Chlamydia is not very common in men.
Truth: Chlamydia is a very common STI with over 200000 new diagnoses per year (in the UK alone). It is particularly common between the ages of 15 - 24.
