what is clamidia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It can be spread through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as through contact with infected genital fluids or sharing sex toys that are not washed or covered with a new condom each time theyre used. Chlamydia can cause cervicitis, urethritis, and proctitis, and in women, the bacteria initially infect the cervix, which can cause signs and symptoms of cervicitis, such as mucopurulent endocervical discharge and easily induced endocervical bleeding. It can also infect the urethra, causing signs and symptoms of urethritis, such as pyuria, dysuria, and urinary frequency. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause permanent damage to a womans reproductive system, making it difficult or impossible to get pregnant later, and can also cause a potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy that occurs outside the womb) . Anyone can get chlamydia, and because it often doesnt cause symptoms, many people may not know they have it.