Prevent Chlamydia

All About Chlamydia

Prevent Chlamydia: A Summary

There are things you can do to lower your risk for getting chlamydia. The following are ways to possibly prevent chlamydia:

Don't have sex. The best way to prevent chlamydia, or any sexually transmitted disease (STD), is to practice abstinence by not having vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
Be faithful. Having a sexual relationship with one partner who has been tested for chlamydia and who is not infected is another way to prevent chlamydia. Be faithful to each other, meaning that you only have sex with each other and no one else.
Use condoms. Condoms can lower the risk of passing chlamydia, so protect yourself with a condom EVERY time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Condoms should be used for any type of sex with every partner. For vaginal sex, use a latex male condom or a female polyurethane condom. For anal sex, use a latex male condom. For oral sex, use a dental dam. A dental dam is a rubbery material that can be placed over the anus or the vagina before sexual contact.
Understand birth control. Know that some methods of birth control (like birth control pills, shots, implants, or diaphragms) will not protect you from STDs. If you use one of these methods, be sure to also use a latex condom or dental dam (for oral sex) correctly every time you have sex.
Communicate with sex partners. Talk with your sex partner(s) about STDs and using condoms. It's up to you to make sure you are protected. Remember, it's YOUR body.
Be frank with physicians. Talk frankly with your doctor or nurse and your sex partner(s) about any STDs you or your partner has or had. Try not to be embarrassed. Being honest could save your lives.
Learn the symptoms of chlamydia. However, remember that chlamydia often has no symptoms. Seek medical help right away if you think you may have chlamydia or another STD.