Bacterial STDs
In the U.S.,Chlamydiais the most common STD caused by bacteria. Females are more
likely than males to develop the disease. Rates of Chlamydia among U.S. females in 2006
is given inFigure22.12. Rates were much higher in teens and young women than in other
age groups. Chlamydia may cause a burning feeling during urination. It may also cause a
discharge from the vagina or penis. However, in many cases, it causes no symptoms. As a
result, people do not know they are infected. Therefore, they don’t go to the doctor for help.
If Chlamydia goes untreated, it may cause more serious problems in females. It may cause
infections of the uterus, Fallopian tubes, or ovaries. These infections may leave a woman
unable to have children.
Figure 22.12: This graph shows data on the number of cases of Chlamydia in U.S. females in
- Which two age groups had the highest rates of Chlamydia? Why do you think rates
were highest in these age groups? ( 7 )
Gonorrheais another common STD. Gonorrhea may cause pain during urination. It may
also cause a discharge from the vagina or penis. However, some people with gonorrhea have
no symptoms. As a result, they don’t seek treatment. Without treatment, gonorrhea may
lead to infection of other reproductive organs. This can happen in males as well as females.
Syphilisis a very serious STD. Luckily, it is less common than Chlamydia or gonorrhea.
Syphilis usually begins with a small sore on the genitals. This is followed a few months later
by a rash and flu-like symptoms. If syphilis is not treated, it may damage the heart, brain,
and other organs. It can even cause death.