Chlamydia often has no symptoms, but it can cause serious health problems, even without symptoms.
Chlamydia often has no symptoms, but it can cause serious health problems, even without symptoms. If symptoms occur, they may not appear until several weeks after having sex with a partner who has chlamydia.
Symptoms in women
Even when chlamydia has no symptoms, it can damage a woman's reproductive system. Women with symptoms may notice:
- An abnormal vaginal discharge
- A burning sensation when peeing
Symptoms in men
Men with symptoms may notice:
- Penis discharge
- A burning sensation when peeing
- Pain and swelling in one or both testicles (although this is less common)
Symptoms from rectal infections
Men and women can also get chlamydia in their rectum. This happens either by having receptive anal sex, or by spread from another infected site (such as the vagina). While these infections often cause no symptoms, they can cause:
- Rectal pain
- Discharge
- Bleeding
See your healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms. You should also see a provider if your partner has an STI or symptoms of one. Symptoms can include an unusual sore, a smelly discharge, burning when peeing, and bleeding between periods.
