How common is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is the most common and most invisible sexually transmitted bacterium infection in the United States. An estimated three million Americans are infected with Chlamydia each year. In 2004, the rate infections reported among women was more than three times higher than that among men, due to the fact that more women than men are tested for this infection.1
Currently, there is very little information on the number South Asians in the United States that are experiencing STIs. Information that is available shows that STIs are a health concern for all communities, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, education, income, culture, or religion. It is important to note that shame, stigma, and fear surrounding STIs make communities, including South Asians, particularly vulnerable as it prevents people from getting informed, tested, and treated. It also keeps people from speaking openly and honestly to their doctors and partners.
For information on STIs and South Asian communities, read about the research that is available.
What are the symptoms?
Usually, there are no visible symptoms, and most people are unaware that they have Chlamydia.
Women that develop symptoms experience abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, and bleeding between menstrual periods. If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Men that develop symptoms may experience pain or a burning sensation while urinating and pus or milky discharge from the penis. Without prompt treatment, Chlamydia can also affect the prostate and can lead to scarring inside the urethra, making urination difficult.