Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in Singapore, caused by a bacteria called “chlamydia trachomatis” and infecting both men and women. Even though the disease is treatable, it can result in severe complications if not diagnosed and treated early.
Unfortunately, due to the prevalent stigma many have towards STDs, many people are afraid to get tested for chlamydia and undergo treatment. Alternatively, they may not be aware that they are infected, as most chlamydia infections are asymptomatic, or they have the wrong information about the illness.
The prevalence of the internet and a lack of oversight on the information posted have contributed to plenty of misinformation about chlamydia. This can have severe repercussions as misinformation may result in a delay in identifying and treating the illness. As such, let us share and debunk some of the most popular myths about chlamydia.
Myth #1: You develop immunity from chlamydia once you have it
One of the most common misconceptions about chlamydia is the perception that one is immune to the disease after recovering from the initial infection. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as gaining immunity after recuperating from chlamydia.
This STD does not work like chickenpox. Even if you already had it once, it is still possible for you to get re-infected if you do not protect yourself by adopting safe sex practices. It is recommended that you err on the side of caution and undergo regular STD testing In Singapore if you are sexually active.
Myth #2: You cannot catch chlamydia if you only had sex once
Those who have only had sex once might possess a false sense of security and think they are safe from contracting an STD. However, in reality, even if you do not engage in sexual activities often, you are still at risk of getting chlamydia, especially if you have a partner that is sexually active.
If your partner is infected with chlamydia, you have about a 30% chance of picking up the STD, even if you only had sex with them once. Therefore, you need to use a condom every time you engage in sexual intercourse, regardless of the frequency.
Myth #3: You will not get chlamydia if you only engage in oral or anal sex
Many people mistakenly believe that oral and anal sex is safer compared to vaginal sex. However, chlamydia, like pretty much all STDs, can be transmitted via any form of sexual intercourse.
There is a significant chance that you could catch chlamydia as long as you engage in unprotected sex. Hence, it is advisable to practise safe sex and go for regular STD screenings to minimise the risk of getting the disease.
Myth #4: Only those with multiple sexual partners should get tested for chlamydia
Some people have the misconception that STD tests are only for those who are sexually active and possess multiple sex partners. While the risk of contracting chlamydia increases when one is sexually active, it is possible to be infected with the disease even if it is your first time having sex.
Myth #5: You do not need to seek treatment as chlamydia goes away on its own
This is the most dangerous misconception one can have regarding chlamydia. Unlike the common cold, our body’s immune system is ill-equipped to eliminate chlamydia on its own. Even though you might notice your symptoms lessen temporarily, the disease will persist inside the body in the absence of an effective treatment.
Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics, but early detection is key to eliminating the disease from your body. So if you suspect you might be at risk of contracting chlamydia, you should seek a diagnosis from an STD clinic in Singapore immediately.
If left untreated, the disease could develop into something nasty. It can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, potentially causing infertility and a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy. For men, they might experience infertility and epididymitis.
Conclusion
Obtaining the correct information about chlamydia is crucial to ensure effective treatment is administered. With the rising prevalence of misinformation spreading throughout the internet, it is common to come across false information about STDs, such as chlamydia.
Therefore, to minimise your risk of contracting chlamydia, it is not just enough to practise safe sex. You must also equip yourself with the correct information and ensure you go for regular STD screenings.
At Elyon Clinic, we provide reliable and confidential sexual health check-ups for patients who value their privacy. If you suspect you are at risk of contracting an STD, do not hesitate to contact us at 6802 7208 to schedule an appointment immediately.
