Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection that often causes no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can include pain when passing urine, unusual discharge, bleeding between periods or testicular discomfort. Testing is needed to confirm infection. Feeling well does not rule it out or prevent it being passed to someone else.

Who should consider testing?

A new partner, sex without barrier protection or contact with someone diagnosed with an infection are reasons to discuss testing. The right samples depend on the type of sexual contact, not simply whether you have genital symptoms. A clinician may recommend urine testing or swabs from relevant sites.

You can ask for sexual health care without having to explain or defend your relationship choices. Tell the clinician about the timing of exposure, symptoms and possible pregnancy. Ask whether testing now is useful or whether a repeat test will be needed because the exposure was recent.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Chlamydia - treatment, symptoms and statistics - Healthdirect Australia.

What happens after a positive result?

A doctor decides the appropriate treatment and explains how to avoid passing the infection on during treatment. Follow the specific advice about when sexual contact can safely resume. Partners may also need notification, assessment and treatment, even when they feel well.

Ask who will contact you with results, what follow-up is required and how partner notification can be handled privately. Do not share a prescription or assume that treating one person treats the whole exposure. A repeat infection remains possible after successful treatment.

When should I seek prompt care?

Pelvic pain, fever, significant testicular pain or swelling needs prompt in-person assessment. Sudden severe testicular pain is an emergency because other urgent conditions can look similar. Pregnancy changes the assessment and treatment discussion. Telehealth may help arrange appropriate testing and review results, but an examination can be necessary when pain or complications are suspected.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.