Chlamydia is a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection that often causes no symptoms. It is diagnosed with a PCR test on urine or a vaginal swab and is usually cured with a short course of antibiotics. Untreated, it can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, so testing after unprotected sex is important.
- Cause
- Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria
- Test
- Urine or vaginal swab PCR
- Treatment
- Prescription antibiotics; partner treatment advised
- Location
- 5F Regen Medical Tower, 463 Gangnam-daero, Seoul
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 10:00–21:00 · Sat 10:00–18:00 · Sun & holidays 10:00–14:00
Symptoms of chlamydia in women
Most women have no symptoms . When symptoms appear, they can include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
How chlamydia is tested
Your doctor collects a urine sample or a vaginal/cervical swab for a PCR test, which detects the bacteria's genetic material. Chlamydia is often tested together with gonorrhea, and many women choose a full STD panel at the same visit.
Treatment
Chlamydia is treated with prescription antibiotics. To avoid reinfection:
- Take the full course exactly as prescribed.
- Avoid sex until you and your partner(s) have finished treatment, as your doctor advises.
- Your partner(s) should be tested and treated too.
- Your doctor may recommend re-testing after treatment.
Why treatment matters
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) , which may cause long-term pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy or fertility problems. Early testing and treatment prevent these complications.
Frequently asked questions
Can chlamydia go away on its own?
How is chlamydia tested in women?
Does my partner need treatment?
Can I be tested for chlamydia without symptoms?
This page is general information for international patients and is not a diagnosis. Your doctor at LANTE OBGYN will advise you based on your history and examination.
