Chlamydia treatment recovery patient overview

Overview

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. Many people with chlamydia do not notice any symptoms, but it can still be passed on to others. The infection is easily treated with antibiotics, and most people make a full recovery.

Yes, chlamydia is one of the most common STIs worldwide. In the UK, it is especially common among young people under the age of 25.

Anyone who is sexually active can get chlamydia. It affects both men and women, and is most often diagnosed in people under 25. You can get it from vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• No symptoms at all (this is very common)
• Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis
• Pain or a burning feeling when urinating (peeing)
• In women: bleeding between periods or after sex, lower belly pain
• In men: pain or swelling in the testicles

Symptoms in children

• In children, chlamydia is very rare and may be a sign of sexual abuse. Symptoms can include discharge, pain, or redness in the genital area. If you are concerned about a child, speak to a doctor or a safeguarding professional.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, chlamydia symptoms are similar to those in younger adults, but may be mistaken for other conditions like a urinary tract infection. Testing is straightforward and recommended if there is any risk of exposure.

Causes

Main causes

• Infection with the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis – this bacteria is passed from person to person through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
• It can also be passed from a pregnant person to their baby during childbirth.

Risk factors

• Not using a condom during sex
• Having a new sexual partner or more than one partner
• Being under 25 years old
• Having had chlamydia before, or having another STI

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain in your belly or pelvis
• If you have a high fever
• If you have heavy or unusual bleeding (especially if you are pregnant or could be pregnant)

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you think you may have been exposed to chlamydia, even if you feel fine
• If you have any of the common symptoms listed above
• If a partner tells you they have chlamydia
• If you are sexually active and under 25, it is recommended to get tested for chlamydia every year or with each new partner

Diagnosis

Chlamydia is diagnosed with a simple test. This can be a urine sample or a swab (like a cotton bud) taken from the affected area. The test looks for the bacteria that cause the infection.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test – you provide a sample of urine in a sterile cup.
• Swab test – for women, a swab may be taken from the vagina or cervix. For men, a swab may be taken from the urethra (the opening at the tip of the penis). Sometimes a swab from the rectum or throat may be used if you have had anal or oral sex.

What to expect at your appointment

The test is quick and usually painless. You may get your results in a few days to a week. Your doctor or nurse will explain the results and, if positive, talk to you about treatment. They will also give you advice on telling your sexual partners so they can get tested and treated too.

Treatment

Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. Treatment is simple and effective. Most people are given a single dose or a course of antibiotics that lasts a week. It is important to take all the medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, even if you feel better quickly.

Self-care at home

• Take all the antibiotics as prescribed – do not skip doses or stop early.
• Avoid having sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) for at least 7 days after you and your partner finish treatment.
• Drink plenty of water and get rest if you feel unwell.
• Tell your recent sexual partners (from the last 6 months) so they can get tested and treated – a doctor or clinic can help you do this anonymously if you prefer.

Medical treatments

Your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics – either a single dose or a week-long treatment. It is important to follow the instructions exactly. You may need to return for a follow-up test after treatment to make sure the infection has cleared, especially if you are pregnant or have other risk factors. Do not share your medicine with others.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat chlamydia. In very rare cases, if complications like a blocked fallopian tube develop, surgery may be considered, but this is for the complication, not the infection itself.

Living with this condition

While you are being treated for chlamydia, you can carry on with your normal daily activities – work, school, and hobbies. The main thing is to avoid sex until the treatment course is finished and your doctor says it is safe. Most people feel back to normal within a few days.

Lifestyle tips

• Use condoms every time you have sex to prevent getting chlamydia again or other STIs.
• Get tested regularly if you are sexually active, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
• Tell your current and recent sexual partners if you test positive – they need treatment too.

Diet and exercise

There are no special diet or exercise rules for chlamydia. Eating a balanced diet and staying active is good for your general health. If you feel tired, rest as needed.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Some people feel worried, embarrassed, or anxious after a chlamydia diagnosis. These feelings are normal. Remember that chlamydia is very common and treatable. Most people recover fully without any long-term problems. If you are struggling with how you feel, talk to a trusted friend, your doctor, or a counsellor. You are not alone.

Prevention

Yes, chlamydia can be prevented. The most effective way is to use a condom correctly every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Having fewer sexual partners and talking openly with partners about STI testing also reduces the risk.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for chlamydia.

Screening programmes

Screening is recommended for all sexually active women under 25, and for men who have sex with men. In the UK, the NHS offers free chlamydia tests for young people. Talk to your doctor or local sexual health clinic about getting tested regularly.

Complications

If left untreated

• In women: pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – an infection of the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries – which can lead to long-term pelvic pain, infertility, or ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the womb that is dangerous).
• In men: epididymitis (inflammation of the tube at the back of the testicle) that can cause pain and, rarely, infertility.
• Reactive arthritis (inflammation of joints, eyes, or urethra) – this is rare but can happen if the infection spreads.
• Increased risk of getting or passing on HIV.

Long-term outlook

With prompt treatment, almost all cases of chlamydia are cured completely and without any lasting harm. The outlook is excellent. The key is to get tested if you think you are at risk, and to complete the full course of antibiotics. After treatment, most people are back to full health and can have normal sexual relationships. Long-term problems only happen if the infection is left untreated for a long time.

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