Chlamydia Trachomatis

Key takeaways

• Testing is important after exposure because discharge or pain may be absent in all sexes.
• Untreated infection can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, epididymitis and fertility complications, while treatment cannot reverse established damage.
• Recent partners need testing or treatment, and sex should be avoided for the advised interval to prevent reinfection.

The listings below do not confirm infection; test site, pregnancy, allergy and possible co-infections guide treatment.

Testing the right sites

Nucleic-acid amplification tests use urine or genital, rectal or throat swabs according to exposure. Testing for gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis may also be appropriate. Symptoms such as pelvic or testicular pain require examination because uncomplicated chlamydia treatment may be insufficient.

Treatment and follow-up

Doxycycline is commonly used for uncomplicated infection, with alternatives in pregnancy or when adherence is a concern. Completing treatment and partner management are essential. Retesting later detects reinfection; a test of cure is reserved for pregnancy and selected circumstances according to guidance.

When to seek urgent care

Seek urgent care for severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever with pelvic pain, fainting, marked testicular pain or swelling, or pain and bleeding when pregnancy is possible.