Chlamydia Infection in Males
What can be done to prevent the infection?
Several safer sex practices can help prevent the spread of
chlamydia infection. Male
condoms and female
condoms provide some protection. Single partner relationships are
safer than sexual interaction with multiple partners.
Any new partners should be asked about their sexual history and should be
tested for sexually transmitted
disease. Sexual contact should be postponed until the tests show no
infection in the partner.
What are the long-term effects of the infection?
Chlamydia infection can cause acute epididymitis, or
inflammation of a structure attached to the testes. Rectal chlamydia can cause
narrowing of the rectum or ulcers in the rectum.
What are the risks to others?
If a chlamydia infection is not treated, a man can pass it to any sexual
partner. This is true even if he does not have symptoms. Chlamydia infections
in females can lead to cancer of the
cervix,
infertility, and ectopic
pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is one in which the fertilized egg
implants outside the uterus.
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