STD’s and Stinky Urine: Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one STD that may cause smelly urine as a symptom.
Chlamydia is an infection, usually of the genitals or eyes, caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It is the most common STD in the U.S. and in the U.K. In the U.S., about 1 million people have Chlamydia.
Although this infection is transmitted sexually, via vaginal, anal or oral sex, it can also be transmitted to a baby if the mother has it.
Chlamydia often causes no symptoms in women, while in men it tends to cause multiple symptoms. The most common are a white discharge from the penis and pain during urination.
Even if you do not have any symptoms, it is vital that the infection still be treated. Otherwise, it may cause problems more serious than smelly pee- including testicular pain and pelvic inflammatory disease.
50% to 80% of women with Chlamydia have no symptoms. However, they are still as much at risk of complications as women who do. Pelvic inflammatory disease can result from this STD, causing uterine and fallopian tube scarring that cause ectopic pregnancies, infertility and complications in pregnancy. In addition, females with Chlamydia are 500% more likely to contract HIV.
Symptoms in women, when present, may include:
· Pain during sex
· Foul smelling urine
· Vaginal bleeding
· Abdominal pain
· Fever
· Vaginal discharge
· Pain during urination
· Frequent urge to urinate
Symptoms of Chlamydia in Men
Half of all men who get Chlamydia will experience inflammation of the urethra, which causes pain/burning during urination. It may also cause a light colored discharge from the penis, tender/swollen testicles or fever.
Left untreated, Chlamydia can cause testicular pain and sterility.
How Can I Get Tested for Chlamydia?
You can get tested for Chlamydia and other STD's by seeing a doctor, using an at-home test kit or using STD testing online.
You can get STD test kits to complete at home, then you would send in the test. The lab will analyze it and you will get your results privately.
STD testing online is an excellent choice because it saves time, money and it maintains your privacy.
Many communities have an STD clinic where free or lower cost STD tests are conducted. Some are run by the local government and others are private, such as Planned Parenthood.
Diagnosing Chlamydia
Your doctor can have you tested for Chlamydia. This involves either taking a swab of the inside of the penis or cervix or testing your urine. It is also possible to test yourself for Chlamydia using an at-home test kit.
Treatment for Chlamydia
Chlamydia is treated using prescription antibiotics. Partners should be treated at the same time to keep from re-infecting each other.
Don't forget that antibiotics can sometimes cause smelly urine.