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WHAT IS CHLAMYDIA?

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection which is transmitted through unprotected sex - meaning a condom was not used - including anal and oral sex.

Once it is diagnosed, it is easily treated and cured. However, if not treated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in females or damage sperm production in males, which can cause infertility.

Symptoms can include burning while urinating or a vaginal or increased penile discharge. A woman who has an advanced case of chlamydia may have severe stomach pain.

No symptoms?

Here's the scary part: 75 percent of females and 50 percent of males with chlamydia do not show symptoms. They don't know they have chlamydia, so they don't get tested or treated. This is one reason it spreads.

Anyone who is having sex should be tested for chlamydia!

It is a painless, routine test at any family planning clinic.

To prevent chlamydia:

- Always use condoms and spermicide during intercourse;

- Use barrier methods during oral sex; and

- Do not become sexually intimate with anyone who shows symptoms of chlamydia.

Of course, abstinence is the only way to be sure that you do not get an STD. Many young people are discovering the relief and joy of having relationships that do not include any type of sex, including oral sex.

Talk with your parents or a family planning counselor about whether you are ready for the responsibility of a sexual relationship.