One of the most insidious venereal diseases modernity is considered chlamydia. He received this title for the fact that in most cases it is almost asymptomatic, gradually affecting the genitourinary system or respiratory organs, eyes. It is widely believed that this infection can be contracted exclusively through sexual contact. But not everything is so simple. It is important to know how chlamydia is transmitted in order to protect yourself from this disease.
Many people infected with chlamydia don't even know it. Considering themselves healthy and not taking any treatment, they continue to infect other people. The onset of the disease can be completely asymptomatic and manifest itself only after a month, and even then not in all cases.
To protect yourself and others from infection with chlamydia, you need to be very attentive to your body, carefully listening to its slightest deviations from the usual norm. If at least one sign is found, an urgent need to visit a doctor and pass the necessary tests in order to either exclude chlamydia or begin immediate treatment. To main symptoms of chlamydia in women relate:
Not less than unpleasant symptoms of chlamydia in men. How this infection is transmitted sexually, everyone should know and be attentive to the signs of the disease:
- burning and itching during urination or immediately after it;
- general depression;
- increase in body temperature;
- excretion of urine with impurities of blood and pus.
Even if left untreated, these symptoms may disappear after a while. But the disease itself will not disappear, turning into a chronic form. This threatens with very unpleasant consequences in the life of an infected person. Both men and women can form adhesions, which will later remind of themselves with dull pains in the lower abdomen, pathological discharge from the genital tract. In addition, multiplying in the body, chlamydia can affect the organs of hearing, vision, and breathing.
Affecting the female reproductive organs, the infection makes its way into the fallopian tubes, causing an inflammatory process in them and clogging them. This leads to the fact that during ovulation the egg cannot enter the uterine cavity, therefore, fertilization becomes impossible.
Therefore, it is so important to have an idea of what chlamydia is. Transmission routes should also not be ignored.
sexual route of infection
There are different ways of transmission of chlamydial infection. The most common way to get chlamydia is through unprotected sex with an infected partner. With a one-time contact, chlamydia is transmitted in approximately 60% of cases, with repeated contact - 100%.
People with reduced immunity are most at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection. In this case, the virus is almost instantly introduced into human cells. A strong immune system will not allow the infection to develop rapidly, thereby smoothing out the possible symptoms of the disease. But in any case, an infected person without proper treatment and protection will become a distributor of chlamydia.
Infection is also possible through oral and anal contact. In such cases, its effect is even more detrimental, since the infection affects the intestines and respiratory organs.
The use of condoms during sexual intercourse significantly reduces the risk of infection. But with any defect or misuse, infection remains almost inevitable.
The most reliable way to protect yourself from chlamydia is to avoid promiscuity and have a regular sexual partner.
Airborne route of infection
It is also important to know how do you get chlamydia by airborne droplets
. This type of chlamydia is called Chlamydia pneumoniae and causes pneumonia. But these cases are very rare, since sputum and the oral cavity contain a small concentration of bacteria.
However, the infection can be transmitted through a kiss, provided there are wounds, cracks and damaged gums in the mouth and a weak immune system.
Infection from mother to child
At birth Can a baby get chlamydia from a mother? by contacting her genital tract. In this case, the eyes and nasopharynx of the newborn are most often affected, which, when born, will look glued and inflamed. But if the mother received proper care and was under the supervision of doctors, then if she has such a disease, a caesarean section is preferable.
The most dangerous for the fetus is the intranatal route of infection with chlamydia, which means infection in the womb. Throughout pregnancy, the baby is under the protection of the placenta, which does not allow bacteria and infections to pass to it. But with the pathology of the placenta, it can no longer provide the little person with all the necessary protection. With such infection, all mucous membranes of the unborn baby are affected: eyes, nasopharynx, genitals and respiratory organs. In addition, swallowing infected amniotic fluid, damage occurs gastrointestinal tract.
With intranatal infection, the risk of intrauterine fetal death is extremely high.
Most people are interested in the question of whether chlamydia is transmitted by household means. In some cases, this is entirely possible. Very insidious and secretive infection such as chlamydia. How this disease is transmitted in everyday life, everyone needs to know. Although chlamydial bacteria are almost not viable in dry or cool air, they can survive for a long time in a humid and warm environment.
If someone in the family has chlamydia, the household route of infection may include infection through personal hygiene items. Therefore, you should always use only your toothbrush, towel and razor.
Chlamydia can also remain on the bed linen and clothing of an infected person. The household way of transmission of infection in this case is the use of other people's personal belongings and bed linen. It can also occur during intercourse while using a condom. The contact itself was protected, but the infection remained on the bed.
Many people are afraid of contracting a chlamydial infection while visiting the pool or swimming in water bodies. This fear is not justified, as in large numbers water, the concentration of bacteria is very low, so infection cannot occur.
In order not to get chlamydia, you need to be aware of the risks of contracting this infection and how it is transmitted. It is also necessary to regularly be examined for the presence of chlamydial infection in order to identify the disease in time and take measures to cure it.
Propagating bacteria are larger and non-infectious, while extracellular bacteria are dense, small, resistant to environmental factors, and are highly infectious pathogens. It is they, due to their resistance and ability to stay outside the cells, penetrating into the human body, causing infection.
Spreading, the virus can affect a whole range of organs: internal and external genitalia, respiratory mucosa, the inner surface of arteries, joints, heart, hearing and vision. In total, about 15 strains are isolated, the most common of them are:
- Chlamydia trachomatis is transmitted mainly through sexual contact and causes diseases of the urogenital region.
- Chlamydia pneumoniae - penetrates by airborne droplets, affects the respiratory tract.
A necessary condition for the appearance of chlamydia is a weakened immune system and the ingestion of a significant number of chlamydia at the same time.
An adult healthy person can not be afraid of the penetration of a strain of a respiratory infection, because. in a strong body, protective functions will work and chlamydia will die.
Having penetrated inside the cell membrane, the virus goes into a latent form - it waits in the wings, without showing itself in any way.
Duration incubation period- the period of time elapsed from the moment the pathogen hit until the first symptoms of the disease appear is from 1 week to a month and depends on:
- protective functions of the body and the state of the immune system;
- infectious dose;
- localization of microorganisms.
During this time, the carrier of the infection is potentially dangerous for all his partners, unprotected intercourse with him is a 50% chance of infection.
The vulnerability of the body and the threat of developing chlamydia increase significantly under the influence of the following factors:
- regular stress, overwork;
- unbalanced diet, lack of vitamins;
- chronic and undertreated diseases;
- intrauterine device, abortions;
- long-term use of antibiotics;
- cold, dampness, hypothermia, overheating;
- low level of culture, non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene;
- casual sex, unprotected sex;
- the presence of other sexually transmitted infections.
Where do chlamydia come from and how are they transmitted - all ways of infection
The virus can be asymptomatic for years in a woman's body and no one will know it exists. The reasons for the detection of chlamydia should start looking from the moment of birth.
During this period, microorganisms do not come into conflict with the immune system, waiting for more favorable environmental conditions for the development of the disease - which were previously listed.
How is chlamydia transmitted in women and how can chlamydia appear even in newborn babies? The source is a sick person. There are several ways of transmission of infection:
- Unprotected intercourse with an infected partner is the most common mode of infection.
However, unlike gonorrhea, which is contracted in 3 cases out of 4, chlamydia is transmitted from an infected partner 1 time out of 4.
At the same time, statistics show that women are more susceptible to it. Bacteria are transmitted along with semen, regardless of the type of sexual relationship. It is worth noting right away that although a condom will not provide 100% protection, it should be worn for any kind of sex.
- Contact household- an extremely rare option. What makes it unlikely is the inability of bacteria to survive in the external environment for a long time. It has been established that in humid conditions, at a temperature of 18-20 degrees, they remain viable, i.e. their infectivity on wet household items persists for 2 days.
These can be personal hygiene items: a towel, underwear and bed linen (cotton linen is the most dangerous, because this material has good adhesion), toiletries.
As well as wet surfaces and chlorinated water in the pool, water attractions, bath, sauna, joint bathing. A strain of infection from contaminated hands or lips can get on the eyes, genitals.
- Vertical- infection of a child at the time of birth, when he passes through the birth canal of an infected mother, or intrauterine infection of the fetus. Transmission of infection through the amniotic fluid can lead to improper development of the embryo and the occurrence of serious pathologies.
It is impossible not to note such a transmission route as contact with infected animals and birds. This is a rare way of infection, characteristic of people directly associated with them, agricultural workers, nurseries. It is the cause of chlamydial ornithosis of the flu-like or pulmonary form.
How you can get chlamydia is described in the video:
Chlamydia is a typical representative of a classic sexual infection transmitted during sexual contact with a sick partner. According to the World Health Organization, it is among the top three sexually transmitted diseases in terms of prevalence.
The carrier is both a man and a woman. In 46% of men and 67% of women, the disease proceeds absolutely without symptoms. Mild or absent symptoms contribute to the prevalence of chlamydia. For this, one unprotected intercourse is enough.
From the source of infection - sperm or vaginal fluid, the bacteria enter the cells of the genital organs of a healthy partner. female body this is most susceptible, tk. microflora of the vagina favorable environment chlamydia habitat. The risk of disease increases:
- during pregnancy;
- during menopause;
- with a decrease in estrogen levels.
This is explained by the fact that a high level of estrogen provides local protection, maintaining the thickness of the vaginal mucosa.
And when their content decreases or the pregnant woman's immune system weakens, the body becomes extremely susceptible to pathogenic bacteria.
During sexual intercourse, pathogenic microorganisms, along with spermatozoa, often enter the cervix and uterine cavity immediately. This vulnerable and most important organ of the female reproductive system needs protection that oral and intrauterine contraceptives are not able to provide.
In addition, the intrauterine device even promotes the advancement of chlamydia - like an elevator, it delivers them directly to the uterus.
Depending on the type of sexual intercourse - vaginal, anal, oral contact, The primary site of infection in men and women may also be:
- mucous membrane of the urethra (urethra);
- rectum;
- damaged areas of the oral cavity, lips;
- larynx;
- the mucous membrane of the eyes, when an infection is transferred to it from the genital organs.
From these lesions, the virus with blood or through the lymphatic vessels can spread throughout the body, causing diseases of various organs.
Ways to prevent chlamydial infection
To prevent the development of chlamydia, it is necessary to block all possible ways for the spread of pathogenic microorganisms. To achieve this, a number of preventive measures will help:
- monogamy in relationships, intelligibility in sexual relations;
- at the slightest doubt about the partner’s health, refrain from sex or use barrier contraceptives, in particular a condom;
- observe the rules of personal hygiene;
- in the period of a decrease in the natural protective functions of the body - immunity, be especially careful about visiting public places, and it is better to avoid them altogether, if this is not possible, then tighten personal hygiene;
- undergo a mandatory examination together with a permanent partner, which is especially important when deciding whether to conceive a child;
- improve health: a balanced diet, physical activity, seasonal intake of vitamins.
Now that you know what causes chlamydia in women, we want to remind you that strict adherence to these simple rules will exclude favorable conditions for infection and increase the threshold for susceptibility to infection.
The high prevalence of the disease, the difficulty in diagnosing and the likelihood of complications require increased responsibility to yourself and your loved ones.
For those who are interested in the topic of chlamydia, we suggest watching this video:
Any sexually transmitted disease can reduce a person's quality of life. Unpleasant symptoms appear that interfere with a full life, serious pathologies develop. One such disease is chlamydia.
More than 8% of women suffer from pathology, men are also not insured. How chlamydia is transmitted is of interest to many, but it is much more important to know than to treat it. Methods of therapy depend on the state of the body and other facts.
- a disease that occurs due to the penetration into the body of pathogenic microorganisms - chlamydia. Bacteria cause the development of a pathological process in various organs and systems.
Interesting! According to numerous studies conducted over the years, it can be concluded that bacteria cause the development of infertility, as well as the impossibility of bearing a child and miscarriage at an early stage.
If, her sexual partner should be examined and treated. The infection is stable, the main danger is the emergence of resistance to medicines. That is why therapy should be aimed at maintaining the body's defenses.
How does infection occur?
Knowing the ways of transmission of chlamydia can protect yourself from infection. Such knowledge helps to make a diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment. The damage to specific organs and the symptoms that appear depend on how the infection occurred. There are four main routes of infection.
As you can see, there are many ways in which the disease can be transmitted. The video in this article explains in more detail how the infection occurs.
Signs and symptoms of the disease
For women, the disease is dangerous because it can be asymptomatic. After entering the body, chlamydia begin to multiply inside the cells, while no signs of the development of the disease will be present. The duration of the incubation period is up to two weeks.
- slight increase in body temperature;
- feeling weak and tired;
- discharge from the genitals with an unpleasant odor and color;
- sensation of itching and burning when urinating.
You should definitely pay attention to the symptoms, especially if shortly before that there was an unprotected intercourse. After some time, the symptoms will begin to disappear, even if there was no treatment, but the disease will not go away, but will go into a chronic stage.
Venereal disease tends to be latent, it develops and becomes the cause inflammatory process, which in turn provokes the appearance of other pathologies.
In women, chlamydia usually appears as follows:
- Colpitis- an inflammatory process on the mucous membrane of the vagina, as well as the gland that is nearby. The disease is accompanied by the presence of discharge, pain in the lower abdomen. When urinating, there are difficulties, the body temperature rises. In this form, the disease appears in those who suffer from a lack of the hormone estrogen.
- cervicitis- inflammation in the cervix. From the genitals, discharge with impurities of pus, the smell is unpleasant. Lower abdomen dull pain. The missing treatment will cause the development of cervical erosion.
- Salpingoophoritis- an inflammatory process in the uterine appendages. Endometritis is an inflammation of the uterine tissue of the endometrium. Salpingitis is an inflammatory process in the fallopian tubes. It begins to develop when the infection penetrates the internal genital organs. In this case, bleeding begins to disturb, pain in the abdomen, body temperature rises, severe pain on palpation.
Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in each case.
Symptoms in men
In more than half of the cases, the disease is asymptomatic, but in this case, the person is still its carrier, which means that it is potentially dangerous for his partner. The duration of the incubation period is up to 28 days, the first symptoms may appear towards its end.
Signs and symptoms of pathology:
- in acute chlamydia, an increase in body temperature to 38 degrees;
- purulent discharge from the urethra, especially noticeable after sleep;
- itching and burning sensation when urinating, the first drops of urine are usually cloudy;
- during ejaculation or at the end of urination, a small amount of blood may be released;
- the external opening of the urethra turns red and swells;
- feeling of discomfort in the lumbar region and lower abdomen.
The symptoms may subside and slightly make themselves felt only in the morning, as a result of which the man forgets about them and does not seek help from a medical institution. For this reason, the acute phase becomes chronic and causes the development of many complications: cystitis, prostatitis, and so on.
The photo below is an example of what the complications look like.
Diagnosis of chlamydia
Due to the asymptomatic course, the infection is most often detected against the background of the development of other diseases with which the patient goes to a medical institution. If there is a suspicion of the development of chlamydia, an anamnesis will be collected, an examination will be carried out, tests taken, and so on. If an infection is detected in a woman, her sexual partner should be examined and vice versa.
So, you can determine the presence of chlamydia as follows:
- swab from the urethra or vagina - helps to identify chlamydia and other infections transmitted through sexual contact;
- PCR diagnostics - the ability to identify the genetic material of microorganisms;
- Ultrasound diagnostics - the ability to identify structural changes in the genital organs that have arisen due to the development of chlamydia.
After the diagnosis is made, the final diagnosis is made.
How to treat chlamydia
Instructions on how the treatment should be carried out are issued by the attending physician. Therapy this disease complex, cannot pass without the help of antibiotics, multivitamins, immunomodulators.
Special attention should be paid proper nutrition, lifestyle, and physical activity. Before prescribing drugs, the doctor must determine what type of chlamydia they are, as well as in what condition the patient is.
Antibiotic treatment
The following drugs may be prescribed for therapy:
The duration of the course of treatment in each case may be different, it all depends on the degree of development of the disease, the type of pathogen and other factors.
Treatment with immunomodulators
It is difficult to imagine the treatment of the disease without the use of drugs included in this group. More often appointed:
- Polyoxidonium - increases the body's resistance, promotes the production of antibodies, makes other drugs less toxic. It can not be taken with individual intolerance to the components that make up the composition.
- Timalin - during infection, it helps to increase cellular immunity, phagocytosis increases, hematopoietic functions are restored. Within ten days, the drug is administered intramuscularly at a dose of 5-20 milligrams.
Any of the drugs can be taken only as prescribed by the attending physician, self-medication is fraught with the development of unpleasant complications.
Multivitamins
Another way to support the body and improve the quality of treatment is to take multivitamins:
- Vitrum - improve the condition of the body when taking antibiotics, stimulates resistance to infections. The duration of use is determined by the attending physician. Urticaria and an allergic reaction may appear.
- Aevit - contains vitamins from groups E and A. The drug improves immunity, fights infection, improves the condition of blood vessels. Taken one twice a day. With individual intolerance to the components that are included in the composition, you can not take it.
Vitamins are essential for the body, especially at a time when it is trying to fight infection.
Physiotherapy
Recently, physiotherapy has been increasingly used to treat chlamydia. With their help, the body's resistance increases, unpleasant symptoms recede.
You can read about the procedures and their effect on the body below:
- Magnetotherapy. During the procedure, the inflammatory process, swelling is removed, pain disappears.
- ultrasonic irradiation. Accelerates the processes of regeneration in tissues, relieves the inflammatory process.
Another commonly used procedure is electrophoresis. It has a vasodilating effect, relieves pain, and also improves metabolism.
Local treatment
For complex therapy, tampons and suppositories are used. In some cases, such therapy replaces taking pills, for example, if a woman is carrying a baby or breastfeeding him.
The following medicines are used for treatment:
- Candles Vitaferon - the basis includes interferon. Under its influence, immunity is stimulated, viruses and other microorganisms die. Within ten days, one candle should be inserted.
- Candles Hexicon - the main active ingredient is chlorhexidine. An inhibitory effect is exerted on chlamydia and other pathogenic microorganisms, the inflammatory process is removed. In the same way as in the previous case, one candle should be inserted for ten days.
- Propolis tampons are folk remedy with anti-inflammatory, regenerating and bactericidal action. The tampon is lubricated with propolis and inserted overnight. The duration of the course of treatment is determined individually for each patient by the attending physician.
- Tampons Clean Point - as part of a component of natural origin. It is possible to accelerate the regeneration processes, remove the inflammatory process, improve the condition of the vaginal microflora.
The price of drugs is different, if necessary, you can ask your doctor to choose a similar remedy at a lower cost.
Preparations to improve the intestinal microflora
For the treatment of chlamydia, one way or another, antibiotics are prescribed. Despite the fact that drugs treat one thing, they depress the immune system, worsen the condition of the gastrointestinal tract, and disrupt metabolism.
That is why in order to protect the patient's body, he is prescribed special drugs:
- Hepatoprotectors. The destructive effect of taking antibiotics decreases, the state of the liver normalizes. Preparations from this group are Phosphogliv and Essentiale Forte.
- Enzymes - help break down food into small molecules. Festal, Mezim and others enter here.
- Bacteriophages - are used instead of antibiotics, affect pathogenic microorganisms selectively. Preparations from this group - Kolifag.
- Probiotics are yeast and bacteria, with their help the intestinal microflora is restored: Hilak Forte, Acipol and others.
It has already been said above that it is not recommended to take medications on your own; as needed, they are prescribed by a doctor.
Treatment regimen for women
Treatment will be effective only if drugs have been prescribed to suppress microorganisms. After the examination, a general assessment of the patient's condition is made, concomitant diseases are identified, and only after that the optimal treatment regimens are selected.
They may be as follows:
- Treatment of acute chlamydia. The patient is prescribed antibiotics, multivitamins and immunomodulators. A week after therapy, systemic enzyme therapy is performed. In the presence of a fungal infection, Nystatin and Fluconazole should be used. Complements physiotherapy therapy.
- Sluggish chlamydia. The first two weeks it is necessary to carry out immunotherapy and systemic enzyme therapy. After that, the patient is prescribed antibiotics, antifungal agents and multivitamins. Physiotherapy and hepatoprotectors support the body.
- Chronic chlamydia. Inductotherapy is carried out for two weeks, Amiksin is prescribed on the 30th day. Within two weeks, systemic enzyme therapy is carried out. After the start of treatment, antibiotics and multivitamins are prescribed on the 10th day.
Treatment regimens are approximate and may vary depending on the condition of the patient.
The consequences of chlamydia in men
In advanced form, that is, when the disease has already become chronic, numerous serious complications can develop:
- Prostatitis - there is pain in the lower back, rectum, groin. Difficulty urinating, urethral discharge mixed with mucus. Gradually, there are problems with potency.
- Urethritis - increased urge to urinate, itching and purulent discharge.
- Epididymitis is an inflammatory process in the epididymis. The condition is characterized by an increase in body temperature, appendages increase in size. Ultimately, the condition leads to impaired spermatogenesis and infertility.
In rare cases, Reiter's disease develops, that is, arthritis and chlamydial conjunctivitis.
The consequences of chlamydia in women
If the infection is not treated, complications will begin to develop that will significantly affect the quality of life of a person. Chlamydia causes an inflammatory process, which in turn leads to pathological conditions.
Possible consequences:
- Inflammatory process in the appendages and fallopian tubes Oh. The disease leads to the formation of adhesions that cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
- Inflammation of the endometrium. It causes spontaneous miscarriages.
- Inflammation in the cervix. A pathological process that is not treated for a long time will lead to oncological diseases.
Just like in men, Reiter's syndrome can develop - the joints, eyes and genitourinary organs suffer.
Prevention
Treatment for chlamydia takes a long time and is not always pleasant. The pathological process can have a negative impact on the psychological state of a woman.
In order to avoid the development of this unpleasant disease, it is recommended to follow simple preventive measures:
- Intelligibility in sexual relations. You can not have sexual intercourse with unverified partners. Important! It must be remembered that even a condom does not give a full guarantee that infection will not occur.
- Use personal hygiene products, do not borrow from others, and do not give yours to anyone.
- Watch your personal hygiene. After visiting public places you need to wash your hands.
- To check for sexually transmitted diseases, both a man and a woman should visit a doctor several times a year.
- Watch out for unusual symptoms.
Chlamydia transmission methods can be different, but with a responsible attitude towards yourself and your personal life, each of them can be easily avoided. In the case of the development of the disease, you should not hesitate with treatment, because the price of such negligence can be high.
Frequently asked questions to the doctor
Ways of transmission of chlamydia
Hello, I am interested in such a question, is chlamydia transmitted through a condom?
Many mistakenly believe that if they use a condom during sexual intercourse, then they are completely protected from all diseases. In fact, this is not the case, and a condom is only protective if used correctly. With air retention in it, misuse, damage, non-observance of the expiration date, it becomes not a defense, but a direct gateway to infection. In addition, you should be aware of other possible ways of transmission of infection.
Carrying an infection
Can I be a carrier of chlamydial infection and not experience any symptoms?
Statistics show that 46% of men and 67% of women are asymptomatic. Thus, we can conclude that outwardly healthy people can be carriers of the infection, they just have it in a latent form. But even the absence of symptoms does not mean that there is no effect on the body.
Chlamydia in men
Why are chlamydia dangerous for men?
One of the most common forms of chlamydia in men is urethritis. The disease can cause a lot of inconvenience to the patient, there are numerous dangerous pathologies- inflammation in the testicles, joints, prostate. As a result, the functions of the reproductive system are reduced.
Chlamydia treatment
Are antibiotics alone enough to treat chlamydia?
Such treatment is usually effective in acute fresh form of infection. At chronic form immunity becomes not so stable, which means that taking only antibiotics may not give the desired result.
In each case, it is extremely important for the prevention and treatment of the disease. In each individual case, the doctor tries to find out in as much detail as possible under what circumstances the infection occurred. The fact is that the ways of transmission of chlamydia largely affect what clinical form the disease will take. In turn, the ways of transmission of chlamydia are predetermined by a number of external and internal factors.
Factors that determine how chlamydia is transmitted are:
- Stability of bacteria in the environment. The longer the microorganism survives in the external environment, the more often infection will occur through household items. In particular, chlamydia under normal conditions retain the potential for infection for 2 to 4 days.
- The state of general immunity. Chlamydia infection is most likely to occur during unprotected intercourse. Chlamydia quickly penetrate into the cells of the epithelium of the genitourinary tract, which leads to the formation of the primary focus of infection. However, in the case of a weakened immune system, the infection can begin to multiply on other mucous membranes, causing atypical clinical forms.
- Types and subspecies of the pathogen. From the point of view of microbiology, there is a whole group of microorganisms, similar in structure and properties to the main pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis. These bacteria also cause chlamydia, but may have other routes of transmission.
The main ways of transmission of chlamydia are:
1.
unprotected sexual contact;
2.
contact-household way;
3.
airborne way;
4.
antenatal route;
5.
intrapartum route.
Unprotected sexual contact.
Compared to other bacterial venereal diseases ( gonorrhea, syphilis) chlamydia has a fairly low virulence ( potential for infection). According to various sources, the risk of becoming infected during unprotected intercourse with a sick partner ranges from 25 to 65 percent. For women, this threat will be more relevant, since in their genitourinary system the area of the cylindrical epithelium, which is necessary for chlamydia to reproduce, is larger.Sexual transmission of chlamydia is the most important in terms of epidemiology. It is thanks to him that the number of patients and carriers, even in developed countries reaches 6 - 20%. In addition, it is the urogenital form of chlamydia that is prone to chronic asymptomatic course. That is, a person, unaware of his illness, continues to infect all his partners. the only effective way to combat this spread of chlamydia in society is to inform the public. This should give impetus to regular preventive examinations, early diagnosis and treatment of the disease. In addition, the elementary use of condoms during casual sex provides reliable protection.
Contact-household way.
Chlamydia can also be contracted through direct contact with household items. This method of transmission of the disease has no epidemiological significance, since its percentage in overall structure incidence is very low. Family members, children in kindergartens or visitors to saunas and pools are most often infected through the contact-household route ( in case of non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene, through the use of shared towels).Items that can be contaminated with chlamydia and pose a threat of infection are usually:
- towels;
- napkins;
- washcloths;
- linens;
- toilet items;
- Underwear.
Airborne route.
Airborne transmission of chlamydia is possible, but in practice it is extremely rare. A patient with chlamydial pneumonia secretes a small amount of the pathogen bacteria when coughing and sneezing. However, this amount is usually not enough to infect. In addition, chlamydial pneumonia itself is rare.antenatal route.
The antenatal route of infection is the intrauterine infection of the fetus, which occurs even before birth. It has been proven that chlamydia can be transmitted transplacentally ( through the placenta and amniotic fluid). This happens if the mother during pregnancy, the infection rises into the uterine cavity. The infection enters the fetus by swallowing amniotic fluid or during direct contact with the mucous membranes. The antenatal route of infection is especially dangerous, as it can lead to premature birth, severe malformations, and even intrauterine death of the fetus.intrapartum route.
The intranatal route of infection is classic for most sexually transmitted diseases. The fact is that during childbirth, the child passes through the birth canal and is in close contact with infected mucous membranes. This results in the transmission of chlamydia from mother to newborn. According to some reports, the risk of such infection in the absence of proper prevention can reach 70%.The intranatal route of infection leads to the following clinical forms of chlamydia in newborns:
- chlamydial conjunctivitis;
- chlamydial pneumonia;
- urogenital chlamydia;
- chlamydial proctitis ( infection of the rectal mucosa).
Chlamydia is one of the many sexually transmitted diseases that is transmitted at high speed from one person to another and can cause severe complications in the form of infertility, impotence and other ailments. Although the disease is treatable, therapy is somewhat complicated by the almost complete absence of symptoms. The bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis affects approximately 8% of the world's population. Therefore, the issue of prevention is acute: chlamydia can cause serious complications, such as infertility, damage to internal organs.
How can you get chlamydia, are there factors that increase the risks, and is it possible to protect yourself from an unpleasant disease?
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia, which can be transmitted in several ways.
- The dominant is sexual. If a condom or some other means of preventing sexually transmitted diseases is not used, then the probability of infection is almost 100%
- Household path. Through common items.
- Vertical. From mother to child during pregnancy.
Expert opinion
Artem Sergeevich Rakov, venereologist, more than 10 years of experience
The main means of preventing chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV and many others infectious diseases transmitted predominantly sexually is the use of a condom. Other methods: douching with antiseptics, the introduction of antimicrobial ointments before sexual intercourse, and others are much less effective.
Infection through a kiss
The environment of the oral cavity is not suitable for bacteria, so infections through a kiss are rare. Nevertheless, it is possible to pick up chlamydia in this way. For this, several conditions must be met:
- the original carrier of the infection has a severe form of the disease that has not been treated for years;
- there are a lot of bacteria in saliva (infection occurs through saliva);
- saliva is swallowed, and quickly.
Thus, infection with chlamydia through a kiss is possible, but only if certain factors are present.
During oral sex
The mechanism of transmission of chlamydia is the same as in the case of a kiss, but the risk is higher, since the penis and vagina are the main habitat of microorganisms, respectively, their entry into the partner's mucosa is almost inevitable. In addition, there is a high probability of chlamydia passing orally: from the mouth of the carrier of the infection to the genitals, in this situation the chances of developing the disease are very high. For this reason, during oral sex, as well as during classical contact, it is important to use a condom!
household way
Doctors do not take this method of transmission of chlamydia seriously, as the risk of infection is very low. The spread of the disease in this way usually occurs in the family when using the same dishes and other household items:
- bed linen:
- towels:
- washcloths.
Another option is infection in common areas, such as swimming pools, beauty salons and toilets. However, the risk of this is also not very high, since such establishments regularly sanitize.
Sex in a condom
Yes, this is also possible. Of course, in most cases this happens when the contraceptive breaks. In such a situation, in fact, ordinary sexual contact occurs, which means that the risk of transmitting chlamydia is 65%. But violation of the rules for the use of rubber products can also lead to the spread of infection. For example, if you do not remove the protected member from the vagina within a few seconds after ejaculation, then the sperm may spill. In this case, infection is very likely. Also pay attention to the fact that even without breaking the rubber, chlamydia can be in the body of a partner due to microscopic violations of the structure of the product. This is especially true for cheap contraceptives bought in dubious places.
Through anal sex
Through the rectum, infection is more than possible, especially with intense sex, leading to ruptures of the rectum. Note that such contact usually infects the passive partner. The same applies to the classic sexual intercourse - the risk of infection is higher for the "receiving" side, that is, for a woman.
Through the blood
Theoretically, this option is possible, but this requires the ingress of infected blood on the mucous membranes. healthy person. Moreover, these same mucous membranes must be damaged. This can happen during a kiss if the gums bleed in the carrier of the infection (the risk is minimal). You are more likely to get chlamydia through the blood when using non-sterile used syringes. Summing up, let's say that it is possible to get this disease through the blood, but the probability of this is very small.
The cause of the disease and diagnosis in women
Women become infected more often than men: their genital tract during intercourse is more prone to microtrauma and bacteria penetration. Infection can also occur when using someone else's underwear and towels, non-compliance with hygiene rules, using shared baths, saunas, jacuzzis, etc.
Diagnosis of the disease is quite difficult. Usually, PCR research, the search for antibodies in blood samples, or the ELISA method are used. These are targeted studies that are rarely prescribed immediately at the first visit to the doctor. Usually, a vaginal smear is first taken for the flora, and already when dysbiosis, some pathogenic bacteria, signs of inflammation, and other manifestations of infection are found in it, a wide range of tests is prescribed, incl. and chlamydia.
The cause of the disease and diagnosis in men
Men are also infected sexually. Less often, infection occurs by contact, due to the long urethra, which the bacterium cannot always overcome.
Diagnosis for chlamydia is carried out both with the help of serology (blood sampling) and after taking a mask from the urethra.
In advanced stages, other organs may be affected secondarily:
- joints;
- eyes;
- internal organs;
- middle and inner ear;
- teeth;
- peritoneum, etc.
Together with general analyzes blood, symptoms, other specific signs, an experienced doctor may suspect chlamydia.
The cause of the disease and diagnosis in children
Newborns get sick in a vertical way, that is, from mother to fetus during pregnancy. Infection is also possible at the time of childbirth, when the child passes through the birth canal. At an older age, infection occurs through a contact-household method, as a rule, in families where parents or other family members are infected.
Diagnosis is based on a general examination, a study of the anamnesis of relatives, as well as on the testimony of a serological blood test.
Expert opinion
Luvanova Arina Viktorovna, specialized in female sexually transmitted diseases
Important!
If chlamydia is found in someone from the household, everyone who lives with him should undergo a preventive course of treatment. Infection of a child with a sexually transmitted disease can potentially occur as a result of violence, so such cases should be carefully investigated.
Chlamydia as a cause of infertility
Chlamydia can penetrate into healthy cells of the fallopian tubes, uterus. This causes inflammation. Normal ciliated cells degenerate into scars, because of this, the egg cannot pass to the junction with the sperm and be fertilized. The longer the disease period, the more cells are affected by the bacterium. This means that the likelihood of infertility increases and it is more difficult to treat.
Men are also vulnerable to chlamydia as a factor in infertility. The reason for this is a decrease in the number of spermatozoa and changes in the very chemical structure of sperm (acidity, protein composition, etc.) due to the penetration of Chlamydia trachomatis into the prostate.
Risk aggravating factors
If the patient's body is weakened, the immune system does not work well, then the chance of successful development of chlamydia increases significantly. The fact is that the human body is quite “smart”. It perfectly recognizes hostile microorganisms and tries to suppress their activity with the help of its own defenses. If at the same time a person observes the necessary precautions and does not have constant contact with direct carriers of the disease, then the chance of becoming one of the cases of chlamydia is minimal.
Thus, factors that increase the risk of infection include the following:
- abuse of alcohol and tobacco;
- addiction;
- work with carriers of infection and their secretions (for example, in clinics);
- violation of the mode of life, including the lack of the necessary duration of sleep;
- malnutrition;
- lack of treatment for other infectious diseases.
Thus, any circumstances that reduce the body's defenses, combined with contact with carriers of the infection, can cause the development of chlamydia.
Prevention and prognosis
Very often, patients ask doctors the question of whether it is possible to become infected with chlamydia if the spouse is sick. The answer is purely positive - without observing security measures, the transmission of the infection will happen sooner or later, and this is inevitable. If the partner is constant, you use the same household items, then this gives chlamydia a significant chance to find another home.
To avoid this, you need to follow some security measures:
- completely exclude unprotected sexual contacts, especially with unfamiliar partners;
- diversify your diet with fruits and vegetables, as well as those foods that help strengthen the immune system, such as fish;
- develop a normal daily routine with a full night's sleep;
- teach yourself to follow the rules of personal hygiene, including regular trips to the shower and timely washing of hands (several times a day);
- once every six months, you should undergo preventive examinations (remember that chlamydia does not always show symptoms, so the onset of the disease can easily be missed);
- when working with carriers of chlamydia and their secretions, use personal protective equipment.
To keep your entire family safe, teach your children about personal hygiene, teach them about water procedures, and explain why you can not use other people's towels and other items intended for personal use.
Chlamydia spreads quickly but is secretive. Thus, infection with the disease and its development in case of violations of the rules of prevention is a matter of time. Remember that the ways of infection are not only in sex, but also in simple household contacts. However, this is not very likely, preventive measures able to protect you and your family from chlamydia!
You can also watch this video, where a specialist explains how to avoid chlamydia infection.