How does chlamydia spread?

Vaginal, anal, and oral sexual contact can transmit chlamydia. The infection may involve the cervix, urethra, rectum, or throat. It can spread when a person has no symptoms, so a partner may be unaware of the infection. A diagnosis describes the infection in the person tested; it does not identify who transmitted it or when.

Chlamydia is not spread by toilet seats, casual touching, kissing on the cheek, sharing cutlery, or using the same bathroom. Symptoms such as painful urination or vaginal discharge need a clinical assessment because other conditions can cause them.

Use condoms or dental dams during sexual contact and avoid sharing sex toys unless they are cleaned and covered between users. After a possible exposure, arrange STI Screening rather than waiting for symptoms. Tell the clinician which areas were involved so testing is planned appropriately.

If chlamydia is diagnosed, follow the prescribed antibiotic treatment and ensure recent partners receive advice. Pause sexual contact for the period recommended by the treating clinician, even if symptoms improve quickly.

Prompt assessment is appropriate with pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, or bleeding between periods after possible exposure. These findings can indicate pelvic inflammatory disease. Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, faintness, vomiting, or heavy bleeding.

Ask whether testing should include the throat or rectum, how partners will be notified, when sex can resume, and what to do if symptoms continue after treatment.