Ways you can get chlamydia

The infection can pass through contact with infected genital fluids and can affect the throat, rectum, cervix, urethra, or other genital tissues. A person may have no noticeable symptoms, so appearance and how someone feels cannot confirm that an infection is absent. Chlamydia is not spread by toilet seats, casual hugging, or sharing ordinary household items.

When symptoms occur, they may include painful urination, unusual vaginal discharge, or bleeding between periods. Untreated infection can move into the upper reproductive tract and contribute to pelvic inflammatory disease, so testing matters even when symptoms are mild or absent.

Arrange STI screening after a new partner, condomless sex, partner notification, or symptoms. Tell the clinician which kinds of sexual contact occurred so the right sites can be tested. Avoid sex until a clinician confirms it is safe after treatment, and ensure recent partners receive advice and testing.

Chlamydia is treated with prescribed antibiotics. Take the medicine exactly as directed and do not share doses. Use condoms or other barriers consistently, and return for any follow-up advised by your clinician. If pelvic pain or fever develops, assessment for a deeper infection may be needed.

Arrange prompt assessment for lower abdominal or pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, bleeding between periods, or unusual discharge. Seek urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, vomiting, or feeling very unwell. Pregnancy with possible chlamydia or pelvic pain also needs timely medical advice.

Ask which body sites need testing, when results will be available, which antibiotic is prescribed, when sexual contact can resume, and how partners should be notified. Mention pregnancy, allergies, other medicines, pelvic pain, painful urination, discharge, or bleeding so the assessment is complete.