Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, an obligate intracellular bacterium. It infects columnar epithelial cells of the cervix, urethra, rectum, and pharynx. Transmission occurs through oral, anal, or vaginal sexual contact, sharing sex toys, or vertically from mother to neonate during delivery. Most infections are asymptomatic, which facilitates transmission and delays treatment. The nurse monitors for symptoms, reinforces medication adherence, provides patient education on prevention, and reports findings to the healthcare team.