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Chlamydial urethritis is a type of infection that affects the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. It is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the world.
Chlamydial urethritis can be asymptomatic or can cause a range of symptoms including:
If left untreated, chlamydial urethritis can lead to serious complications such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled tube behind the testicles), prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland), and infertility.
Diagnosis of chlamydial urethritis is usually done by a healthcare provider through a physical exam, laboratory tests, or a combination of both. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and partners of infected individuals should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
The best way to prevent chlamydial urethritis and other STIs is to practice safe sex, including using condoms consistently and correctly, getting regular STI testing, and limiting the number of sexual partners.