Chlamydia is caused by obligate intracellular pathogen which usually affects the
mucous membranes of the endocervix, rectum, urethra, conjunctiva and pharynx.
The risk factors include below the age of 25 years, recent sexual partner, more
than one partner within the previous year and lack of consistent use of condoms.
Women can present with vaginal discharge, dysuria, lower abdominal pain,
deep dyspareunia, cervicitis, postcoital bleeding and intermenstrual bleeding.
Oedematous cervix and contact bleeding (cervix) can be seen on speculum
examination. For diagnosis, an endocervical swab is needed for culture or for
NAAT to identify DNA.
If not treated, chlamydia may cause severe complications which include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) (without treatment 10%–40% will develop PID).