I have chlamydia and gonorrhea: what should I do?

These are sexually transmitted bacterial infections. Either infection can cause no symptoms, so a positive test does not describe how long it has been present. Symptoms may include painful urination, vaginal discharge or bleeding between periods. Chlamydia can affect the cervix, urethra, rectum or throat; gonorrhea can affect similar areas. Untreated infection can spread into the pelvis and contribute to pelvic inflammatory disease.

Take the antibiotics prescribed for you and follow the full instructions, even if symptoms settle. Do not share medication or use leftover tablets, because the appropriate treatment depends on the infections and sites involved. Do not have vaginal, anal or oral sex until your clinician says it is safe and recent partners have been contacted and assessed. Ask about STI screening for other infections and whether repeat testing is needed. Condoms and regular testing can reduce future transmission.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or worsening lower-abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, fainting, pain during pregnancy, or feeling very unwell. These symptoms can signal a more serious pelvic infection or another problem needing prompt assessment. Arrange review if symptoms continue after treatment, return, or your partner has not been assessed.

Ask which infection sites were tested, which treatment you need, when sexual contact can restart, whether partners need treatment, and whether follow-up STI screening is appropriate.