When to worry about vaginal discharge with chlamydia

Chlamydia can affect the cervix and cause increased or unusual discharge. Some people have few symptoms, so the appearance of discharge cannot establish the diagnosis. A sexual health test is needed, especially after sex without a condom or contact with a partner who has an infection.

Discharge with lower abdominal pain, bleeding between periods or after sex, pain during sex, or burning when urinating can indicate inflammation that needs treatment. Untreated infection can spread upwards into the reproductive organs.

Book a sexual health or primary-care appointment for testing. Until you receive advice, avoid sex or use condoms, and tell recent partners if a clinician confirms chlamydia so they can be tested. Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed and do not share them.

Seek prompt care for discharge with pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, or pain during sex. Seek urgent help if pain is severe, you feel faint, or you are pregnant and have pelvic pain or bleeding. These signs may need rapid assessment for an ascending infection or another urgent cause.

Which tests do I need, and when will results be ready? Should my partner or partners be tested? When is it safe to resume sex? Do I need follow-up testing?