Sexual health
•
Chlamydia Symptoms in Men
Joseph Anya
Clinical Ops
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, and while it can affect both men and women, the symptoms of chlamydia in men can often be subtle or even go unnoticed. This is why it’s often referred to as a "silent" infection, as many men may not experience any symptoms until the infection progresses to more serious health issues.
But don’t be fooled—early detection of chlamydia symptoms in men is crucial for preventing complications like infertility, epididymitis, and prostatitis. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about chlamydia symptoms in men, from early signs and causes to treatment options and prevention.
What is Chlamydia and How Do Men Get It?
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Men who have unprotected sex with an infected partner are at risk of contracting the infection.
Although chlamydia is common among both men and women, the majority of infections in men occur in the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. The infection can also spread to the rectum, throat, and eyes.
Chlamydia is treatable with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and more.
What Are the Symptoms of Chlamydia in Men?
Many men with chlamydia experience few or no symptoms, which makes it difficult to detect without regular testing. However, when symptoms do appear, they typically develop within 1 to 3 weeks of exposure to the bacteria. Recognizing the early signs of chlamydia is critical for timely treatment and preventing long-term complications.
Here are some of the most common symptoms of chlamydia in men:
1. Painful or Burning Urination
One of the first signs of chlamydia in men is pain or a burning sensation while urinating. This symptom is commonly associated with infections that affect the urethra, such as chlamydia. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and may worsen over time.
2. Unusual Discharge from the Penis
Chlamydia often causes discharge from the penis, which may be clear, cloudy, or even slightly yellow. This discharge is typically not thick like the discharge caused by other infections, and it may not be noticeable unless the infection is more advanced. Some men may also notice that the discharge increases in volume as the infection progresses.
3. Pain or Swelling in the Testicles
Testicular pain or swelling is another symptom that may occur in men with chlamydia. This is often caused by epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis (the tube that stores sperm). Painful swelling in the testicles can be a sign that the infection has spread beyond the urethra.
4. Rectal Pain, Discharge, or Bleeding
Men who engage in anal sex are at risk of contracting chlamydia in the rectum. This can lead to symptoms such as rectal pain, bleeding, or discharge. The discharge may be mucus-like or even bloody in more severe cases. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.
5. Sore Throat (Pharyngeal Chlamydia)
In cases where chlamydia is contracted through oral sex, it may infect the throat, leading to symptoms such as sore throat, pain while swallowing, or redness. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so testing is essential for diagnosis.
6. Painful Sexual Intercourse
Some men may experience pain during sex due to the inflammation caused by chlamydia. This symptom, along with other signs of the infection, may affect sexual performance and lead to discomfort.
7. No Symptoms at All (Asymptomatic)
Many men with chlamydia may not experience any symptoms at all. Studies suggest that up to 50% of men with chlamydia are asymptomatic, meaning they can unknowingly spread the infection to others. This is why routine testing for STIs, especially if you have multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex, is so important.
How Does Chlamydia Affect Men’s Health?
If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health complications. The bacteria can spread to other parts of the reproductive system, leading to conditions such as:
1. Epididymitis
This is an inflammation of the epididymis, the tube at the back of the testicles that stores sperm. Epididymitis can cause pain, swelling, and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to infertility if not treated promptly.
2. Prostatitis
Chlamydia can also cause prostatitis, which is an infection of the prostate gland. This condition can lead to painful urination, lower back pain, and difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection.
3. Infertility
Chlamydia is a leading cause of infertility in men. If the infection is not treated, it can cause blockages in the reproductive system, preventing sperm from reaching the egg during intercourse. This can result in difficulty conceiving a child.
4. Increased Risk of HIV
Untreated chlamydia can increase the risk of contracting or transmitting HIV. The inflammation caused by chlamydia can make it easier for the HIV virus to enter the body during unprotected sex.
How Is Chlamydia Diagnosed in Men?
Chlamydia can be diagnosed through a simple urine test or by swabbing the affected area (urethra, throat, rectum). If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or have had unprotected sex, it is important to get tested for chlamydia and other STIs.
Testing is quick, easy, and confidential. If you’re asymptomatic but at risk of chlamydia, it’s still important to get screened regularly, as early detection is key to avoiding complications.
Priv offers a safe space for STI testing and treatment.
What Are the Treatment Options for Chlamydia in Men?
Chlamydia is highly treatable with antibiotics. If you’re diagnosed with chlamydia, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe azithromycin or doxycycline. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if your symptoms go away before finishing the medication.
It’s also crucial to inform any sexual partners so they can be tested and treated, preventing reinfection. Abstaining from sex until the infection is fully treated is essential to avoid spreading chlamydia to others.
How Can You Prevent Chlamydia?
The best way to prevent chlamydia and other STIs is through safe sex practices. Here are some prevention tips:
- Use condoms during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Get regular STI screenings if you are sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners.
- Avoid sharing sex toys without cleaning them thoroughly or using condoms.
- Consider limiting your number of sexual partners to reduce exposure to STIs.
Stay Vigilant and Get Tested
Chlamydia is a serious infection that can lead to significant health problems if left untreated. Early detection of chlamydia symptoms in men is essential for preventing long-term complications, such as infertility or chronic pain. If you experience any symptoms or believe you may have been exposed to chlamydia, it’s important to seek medical advice and get tested.
Remember, chlamydia is treatable, and with early intervention, you can avoid complications and maintain good sexual health. Regular STI testing, safe sex practices, and open communication with your sexual partners are essential in protecting your health and well-being.
Start your online visit now
Get seamless and discreet care for conditions that affect your everyday life
©2025 Priv Health, a Lifebox Labs company