Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). It is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis.
The global prevalence of Chlamydia infection in men, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2020, is 2.5%.
According to a recent study, the prevalence and risk factor of genitourinary Chlamydia Trachomatis among patients attending STI clinics in Malaysia is 21.7%.
Who is more likely to get Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is more common in young people. Almost two-thirds of new chlamydia infections are detected among young individuals between the ages of 15–24 years.
However, those beyond the age range can also be infected if they are exposed to the disease.
Chlamydia can be easily transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse via the vagina, penis, mouth, or anus of an infected person.
The risk factor is much higher in individuals who are sexually active with multiple sexual partners.
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are more prone to get infected by Chlamydia through oral or anal sex.
What are the Chlamydia symptoms for males?
Chlamydia does not always present symptoms in men.
At least 50% of men may have Chlamydia but experience no symptoms at all. This is known as an asymptomatic infection.
It is important to know that looking for symptoms alone is not a reliable way to identify Chlamydia. You should do a Chlamydia test and other sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests regularly if you are sexually active.
For those who feel they may be showing symptoms of Chlamydia, here are the symptoms you should look out for:
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Pain & burning sensation when urinating
Chlamydia may make you pee, a lot!
You should look out for a burning sensation, redness, vague itchiness in the urethra, or unexplained pain while urinating.
- Discharge from the tip of your penis
Check again if you notice a strange liquid discharge at the tip of your penis without sexual arousal. If it’s white, cloudy, or watery, you could be showing symptoms of Chlamydia.
In some cases, the penile discharge can be yellowish and foul-smelling.
- Testicular pain
Pain and swelling in the testicles can develop in men with Chlamydia as the bacteria makes its way to the testicles or scrotum. This area may also feel enlarged, full, heavy, and warm to the touch.
- Sore throat
Pain in your mouth or a sore throat can also be signs of Chlamydia that may occur after unprotected oral sex. This can be contagious.
The most common throat infection occurs as a result of a Streptococcus infection. Strep throat and oropharyngeal Chlamydia are both bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, which result in similar symptoms like sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and swallowing difficulties.
It is important to distinguish between strep throat and Chlamydia to ensure you get the right treatment after getting tested.
- Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding
Chlamydia affecting the rectum after unprotected anal sex can cause unexplained pain, light bleeding, itchiness, unusual discharge, or swelling around the anal region.
This can be passed on easily to others if left undiagnosed or untreated.
If you are unsure of your symptoms, our knowledgeable Universal Clinic Team is always at the ready to address your concerns.
How to test for Chlamydia?
The recommended Chlamydia test is simple, painless, and reliable.
There are two main samples which might be required:
- Swab test: A small cotton bud is gently wiped over the affected area (vagina, penis, anal orifice, or throat) to obtain samples.
- Urine sample: A first-catch urine sample (the first 20–30ml of the urine stream) is required for the test.
Is Chlamydia life-threatening? Can it be treated? How do you treat oral Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a preventable and curable STI.
If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems.
In men, Chlamydia can spread to the testicles and the tubes that carry sperm, causing pain and fertility problems such as:
Urethritis: Infection of the urethra that can cause painful urination.
Epididymitis: Infection of the tube carrying sperm which can result in testicular pain and infertility.
Proctitis: Inflammation of the rectum.
Chlamydia can effectively be treated with simple antibiotics. Once you complete a course of oral antibiotics, it takes around 1–3 weeks for the infection to resolve.
However, asymptomatic infected people could have Chlamydia for years without realising it. This may lead to other serious complications.
For oral Chlamydia, take note that it is also treated with a course of oral antibiotics.
You must abstain from sexual intercourse until you complete the medication and resolve symptoms if present. To minimise chances of reinfection, sexual partners are also advised to get tested and treated.
All patients must attend a follow-up 4–6 weeks after completing the treatment process to ensure the infection has resolved effectively.
In some cases, patients may be required to repeat the course of antibiotics if they were sexually active with their partners without completing treatment or have missed days of medication in-between.
Still worried about getting tested for Chlamydia?
Don’t delay getting tested if you suspect you might have contracted Chlamydia.
Our Universal Clinic Team understands that seeking STI or Chlamydia testing can be a sensitive matter. That’s why we prioritise your privacy and offer convenient and discrete consultations.
Click on this page to book your appointment today.
