Chlamydia
Health Services > Sexually Transmitted Infections > Chlamydia                                                                                      En Español

Are there are symptoms?

Chlamydia can be present for a year or longer with NO symptoms. Men are more likely to have symptoms of infection than women, but symptoms in men are often very mild. 75% of infected women have NO symptoms. Symptoms may occur only when complications set in.

If symptoms are present, what are they?

Signs of infection in men:

• Milky or clear discharge from the penis
• Burning with urination (this usually comes and goes, and is MILD)
• Slight burning and itching around the opening of the penis
• Aching or swelling in the testicles

Signs of infection in women:

• Unusual vaginal discharge (heavier than usual or watery)
• Burning with urination 
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Pain or bleeding during vaginal intercourse
• Soreness or aching in the lower abdomen
• A urinary tract infection that keeps coming back after it's been treated

Can I be tested for chlamydia?

Tests for chlamydia are not 100% accurate. About 7% of the time, the chlamydia test results are wrong. In other words, the test is positive, but chlamydia infection is NOT present. Because the test is not perfect, treatment is sometimes recommended because of symptoms alone. If your test is positive, you can have a second test done at the clinic. If the second test is positive, the diagnosis of chlamydia is considered 100% accurate.

What is the treatment?

Antibiotic pills are taken by mouth. If there is a positive chlamydia test or if there are symptoms of chlamydia, the person's sexual partner should be treated at the same time. All the medication must be taken as directed to cure the infection.

What should I tell my partner?

Please feel free to let your partner know that confidential information about chlamydia and treatment for infection is available at Planned Parenthood.