How To Prevent Chlamydia

By: Christine Daniels

Break Studios Contributing Writer

How to prevent Chlamydia is a frequently asked question. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. Because it is a bacterial infection, when contracted and caught early, Chlamydia is very curablel; all you have to do is take antibiotics. Chlamydia, if left untreated, however, can lead to short-term and long-term health problems. Learn about how to prevent Chlamydia so you will not have to deal with any health issues.

  1. Ask.  If you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex with a man or woman who is infected with Chlamydia, you can contract it from him or her. Ask your partner or have them get tested for Chlamydia before having sex.
  2. Sleep with less people. Any sexually active person runs the risk of becoming infected with Chlamydia. The larger the number of sexual partners, the larger your risk of becoming infected. Stay monogamous and your chances of getting Chlamydia will be greatly lowered.
  3. Use a condom. Using a condom is one of the best ways to prevent contracting Chlamydia if they are used consistently and correctly. So, use a latex condom when you have sex and your risk of becoming infected will be lowered.
  4. Sexual abstinence. This is the best and most effective way to prevent becoming infected with Chlamydia. Abstinence means abstaining from sex. No sex, no Chlamydia.


Tips:

  • Learn about the symptoms and signs of Chlamydia. When you are aware of the symptoms, you can start receiving treatment sooner. The only time you should consider having sex without a condom is when you are in a long-term, monogamous relationship are certain that both you and your partner are STI free and faithful to one another.
  • Get Tested annually. An annual test for STDs and physical exam is a great way to monitor your health. If you get tested and find out you have Chlamydia, you should start treatment right away.
Posted on: Oct. 24, 2010