Chlamydia Symptoms in Men & Women: A Comprehensive Guide for Hong Kong

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Hong Kong, particularly among sexually active young adults. Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, this infection is often called a "silent" disease because most infected individuals show no symptoms yet remain contagious and vulnerable to serious complications . In Hong Kong, population-based studies reveal an overall chlamydia prevalence of 1.4%, with sexually active young women (aged 18-26) showing a significantly higher rate of 5.8% . Understanding the symptoms, risks, and available resources is crucial for protecting your health in Hong Kong's unique social context.

Common Symptoms of Chlamydia

Why Many People Remain Asymptomatic

Up to 70-80% of women and 50% of men with chlamydia experience no noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection . This asymptomatic nature allows the infection to spread unknowingly and can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of complications.

Symptoms in Women

When symptoms do appear in women, they may include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge (yellow or gray with an unusual odor)
• Burning sensation during urination
• Bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse
• Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
• Pain during sexual intercourse

Symptoms in Men

Men with symptoms may experience:

• Watery or mucus-like discharge from the penis
• Burning or itching sensation at the tip of the penis
• Pain or burning during urination
• Pain and swelling in one or both testicles (less common)

Other Symptoms Affecting Both Genders

Chlamydia can also infect other parts of the body, causing:

• Rectal infection: Pain, discharge, or bleeding (especially after receptive anal sex)
• Throat infection: Usually asymptomatic but can cause soreness
• Eye infection: Redness, pain, and discharge (if infected fluids contact the eyes)

Complications of Untreated Chlamydia

In Women

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infection spreading to the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, which can cause:
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Infertility (due to scarring of fallopian tubes)
• Ectopic pregnancy (potentially life-threatening)
• Pregnancy Complications: Untreated chlamydia can lead to:
• Premature delivery
• Transmission to newborns during childbirth, causing eye infections or pneumonia

In Men

• Epididymitis: Painful inflammation of the testicles that can potentially lead to infertility
• Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra causing pain and discharge
• Reactive Arthritis: Joint inflammation accompanied by eye and urethra irritation (Reiter's syndrome)

Increased HIV Risk

Both men and women with untreated chlamydia have increased susceptibility to HIV infection if exposed, due to inflammation creating entry points for the virus .

Testing for Chlamydia in Hong Kong

Who Should Get Tested?

• Sexually active individuals under 25 (highest risk group)
• Those with multiple sexual partners or a new sexual partner
• Anyone who has had unprotected sex
• Individuals experiencing any symptoms mentioned above
• Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy

Testing Methods Available in Hong Kong

• Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT): The gold standard, using urine samples or swabs from the cervix, urethra, rectum, or throat

Treatment and Prevention

Effective Treatment

• Chlamydia is curable with antibiotics, typically azithromycin (single dose) or doxycycline (7-day course)
• All recent sexual partners (within past 3 months) must be tested and treated to prevent reinfection
• Avoid sexual contact until both you and your partner have completed treatment

Prevention Strategies

• Consistent condom use during vaginal, anal, and oral sex
• Regular screening annually or with new partners
• Open communication with partners about sexual health
• Proper hygiene with sex toys (clean and cover with new condoms)

Hong Kong-Specific Considerations

Unique Prevalence Patterns

Hong Kong shows a "U-shape" disease burden with peaks in:

• Young women (18-26 years): 5.8% prevalence
• Older women (40-49 years): Higher than average prevalence

FAQs About Chlamydia in Hong Kong

Can chlamydia be cured?

Yes, chlamydia is completely curable with appropriate antibiotics. Early treatment prevents complications .

How long after exposure do symptoms appear?

Symptoms may develop 1-3 weeks after exposure, but many people never experience symptoms .

Where can I get free or low-cost testing in Hong Kong?

Public Social Hygiene Clinics and some NGOs like AIDS Concern offer confidential testing at low or no cost .

Is chlamydia testing confidential in Hong Kong?

Yes, all testing services in Hong Kong maintain strict confidentiality, including public clinics, private providers, and NGOs .

Conclusion

Chlamydia is a common, treatable, but often asymptomatic infection that poses significant health risks if left undiagnosed in Hong Kong. Recognizing the symptoms—or understanding that you might have no symptoms at all—is crucial for timely testing and treatment. Regular screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly young adults under 25 and those with multiple partners. Hong Kong offers various confidential testing options through public clinics, private providers, and NGOs. By practicing safe sex, getting tested regularly, and seeking treatment promptly when needed, you can protect your health and prevent the spread of chlamydia in our community.

Ref. 1 A review on infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. Kaveh Manavi (2006).
REF.2 Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae transmission from the oropharynx to the urethra among men who have sex with men, Bernstein 2009)