We've known for years that chlamydia, a sexually-transmitted infection, is a huge threat to female fertility, but new research shows that it's a risk for men, too. Most people who have chlamydia don't have a clue they've been infected. There are often no symptoms at all, or at most very mild, non-specific symptoms. Chlamydia has become a serious problem in the UK, where it's estimated as many as one in ten sexually active women under 25 are infected.
The new study shows that chlamydia can damage sperm quality, affecting the ability to swim and causing defects. Fortunately for men, once chlamydia is detected and treated with antibiotics, the sperm quality does improve. For women, however, the fertility problems associated with chlamydia tend to be irreversible. It can cause pelvic infection and block the fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovary to the womb. If this happens, a woman will need medical help to get pregnant.
All the more reason to get tested. Chlamydia screening involves a simple urine test or swab, and antibiotics are prescribed if the test comes back positive. Most at risk are young people who have unprotected sex, and the more partners you have, the more likely you are to get chlamydia. Even those who aren't considering parenthood in the near future should think about going for a test to make sure they aren't putting their long-term chances of having a family at risk.
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