What is chlamydia?
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial STI in the US — about 1.6 million cases reported annually (likely undercount). Most infections are asymptomatic, making routine screening important.
Untreated, can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy in women, and epididymitis in men. Treatment is simple — antibiotics for the patient and partners.
Do I have chlamydia? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Sexually transmitted bacterial infection. Spread through vaginal, anal, oral sex.
Is it contagious?
Yes — STI.
Most people with chlamydia have no idea they have it — which is why routine screening matters for sexually active people under 25.
Can it be treated online?
Chlamydia screening, treatment, and partner notification are well-suited to telehealth. Severe symptoms suggesting PID or epididymitis, pregnancy, recurrent infections benefit from in-person care.
How chlamydia is treated
Doxycycline 100mg twice daily for 7 days is first-line. Azithromycin 1g single dose alternative. Treat sexual partners. Re-test in 3 months. Avoid sex for 7 days after treatment.
Self-care while you wait
- Avoid sex for 7 days after treatment
- Notify all recent sexual partners (last 60 days)
- Use condoms
- Complete full antibiotic course
- Get tested for other STIs
- Re-test in 3 months
- Routine screening if under 25 and sexually active
How long does it last?
Treated cases resolve in days. Without treatment, can persist for months and cause long-term reproductive damage.
Frequently asked questions
Will my partner know they need treatment?
You should tell recent partners. Many states allow expedited partner therapy where clinicians prescribe for partners without seeing them.
How long was I infected before symptoms?
Often weeks to months without symptoms. Treatment is the same regardless.
Can I get reinfected?
Yes — immunity doesn't develop. Re-testing 3 months after treatment is recommended.
Will it affect fertility?
Treated promptly, no. Untreated can cause PID and tubal damage.
Can I get chlamydia from oral sex?
Yes — oral chlamydia is possible. Treatment is the same.
