Chlamydia is one of the most common kinds of sexually transmitted diseases. In the early stages of the disease, treatment is possible, and one can get completely cured. However, if left unattended, the disease may lead to permanent damage to some sexual functions — and for misters — it may lead to erectile dysfunction or ED.
Chlamydia is caused by a teeny weeny parasitic bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can happen to both men and women. Symptoms of this disease include a burning sensation when peeing, swelling of the organs, unusual discharge from the vagina or the penis, etc.
How Chlamydia causes erectile dysfunction?
As mentioned above, the long term side effects of Chlamydia can be severe. Few of them are:
- Chronic prostatitis in men
Prostate issues in men are not uncommon — especially enlarged prostate is a prevalent problem. Research shows that Chlamydia may cause prostate infection. This infection, over time, turns into a complicated and more severe condition called prostatitis — which eventually leads to ED. Inflammation of the prostate eventually leads to restricted blood flow to the penile region, thus impacting erections. Prostate infection may further damage the related functions, which could complicate matters.
- Pain and infection
The most common and earliest signs of this disease are pain and burning sensation when peeing. When men have Chlamydia, they may abstain from sex because of the discomfort caused. This applies to women, too, as there may be pain, lack of lubrication, etc. Over some time, the pain doesn’t get better and leads to inflammation.
Infection caused by Chlamydia then enters the genital tract and can spread to other organs too. For men, the chlamydia bacteria infect the urethra. This is a tube that transports the sperm out of your body. This also leads to inflammation and swelling in the organs. In women, it often results in pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Lack of symptoms
In some men, this STI or sexually transmitted infection may also occur without any symptom — especially if you have had it over some time. Not having any symptoms eventually results in repeated infection and, in some cases, increases the chances of getting HIV.
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the CDC, it possible to contract Chlamydia from a partner without ejaculation.
Preventing Chlamydia
One of the safest ways of preventing this disease is to ensure safe sex practices. This includes using a condom, avoiding multiple sexual partners, following a hygienic regime, and also sticking to a healthy diet.
Keep in mind that the earlier signs of Chlamydia should not be ignored. You should immediately consult a physician if the sensation of burning when peeing or pain recurs. Usually, antibiotics are the best way to treat this problem — however, the doctor may suggest other medications alongside too.
While Chlamydia is a common problem, other diseases have similar symptoms too. With the right medication and treatment, not only will you be able to avoid the recurrence of this issue, but it will also safeguard your partner.
Medically reviewed by Rishabh Verma, RP
