Chlamydia symptoms
Many people have no noticeable symptoms. When they do happen, typical signs include a burning sensation when passing urine and abnormal discharge. Vaginal bleeding between periods or after sex can occur. Pain in the lower tummy or pelvis may indicate the infection has spread. In men, pain or swelling in the testicles can occur.
Act the same day if you have severe lower tummy pain, fever, pelvic pain with vomiting, or pain and swelling in a testicle. These can be signs of a complication and need urgent assessment.
Do you need antibiotics for chlamydia?
For most adults, the first-line treatment is doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 7 days. An alternative for specific cases can be a single dose of azithromycin 1 g followed by 500 mg daily for 2 days, depending on clinical advice. Avoid sex (including oral sex) until you and any partners have completed treatment and symptoms have settled.
Re-testing: if you were treated for chlamydia in the last few months, a re-test after 3 months helps detect reinfection. If you are pregnant, have symptoms that continue, or had sex before finishing treatment, seek advice on earlier review.
Online prescription for chlamydia
Step 1: complete a short medical questionnaire with an online doctor in Ireland, such as Zava.
Step 2: if antibiotics are appropriate, the doctor issues a prescription and sends it via Healthmail. If you choose Healthwave, the prescription can be addressed to healthwave.dundrum@healthmail.ie.
Step 3: the pharmacy prepares your order and gets it ready for collection or delivery. If you choose Healthwave, we pack discreetly and deliver typically within 1–2 working days, or arrange convenient collection.
Prefer to speak directly with a doctor?
Book a video consultation with a registered doctor via Eirdoc.
Prefer to see a doctor in person? Use the HSE GP finder to book locally.
Testing, partners and confidentiality
You can order a free home STI test (for ages 17+) in most areas, or attend an HSE STI clinic. If you test positive, recent sexual partners need notification and treatment. Many clinics offer anonymous partner notification by text.
Self-care and prevention tips
- Use condoms consistently while awaiting results and during treatment.
- Avoid sex for 7 days after starting treatment and until partners are treated.
- Test for other STIs if you have a positive chlamydia result.
Supports available in Ireland
FAQs
How fast do chlamydia antibiotics work?
Most people feel better within a few days, but finish the full course. Avoid sex for 7 days and until partners are treated to prevent reinfection.
Can chlamydia clear without antibiotics?
It may persist and cause complications even with mild symptoms. Antibiotics are recommended for confirmed infection.
When should I re-test after chlamydia treatment?
A re-test at 3 months is advised, or sooner if you have ongoing symptoms or had sex before completing treatment.
