Chlamydia medication is prescribed through online consultations.
Consultations are available daily from 9:00 to 22:00, with same-day shipping possible. We also offer at-home testing kits.
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia infection is one of the most commonly reported sexually transmitted infections in Japan. In many cases, people infected with chlamydia experience no symptoms, and many unknowingly leave the infection untreated. It is particularly common among young people, with research reporting that over half of infected individuals are asymptomatic. The infection is transmitted through sexual contact involving the genitals, mouth, or anus, and can affect not only the genitals but also the pharynx (throat), anus, and even the conjunctiva of the eyes, leading to conjunctivitis.
In men, it can progress from urethritis to epididymitis, and in women, from cervicitis to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), sometimes leading to infertility. Additionally, if a pregnant woman is infected, there is a risk of vertical transmission to the newborn during childbirth.
Co-infection with chlamydia and gonorrhea (dual infection) is also common, reported in approximately 20-30% of cases. Regular testing is crucial if you have engaged in activities that carry a risk of infection.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
In Men
Symptoms appear after an incubation period of 1 to 3 weeks following infection, but often they are mild or entirely absent. If symptoms are present, they may include:
- Pain or discomfort during urination
- Small amounts of clear, watery discharge
- Mild itching or tickling sensation
If left untreated, inflammation can spread to the epididymis, causing testicular swelling and pain (epididymitis). Oral sex and anal sex can also lead to infection, making throat and anal testing necessary.
In Women
Symptoms may appear after about 1 to 3 weeks following infection, but they are often subtle, and many women do not notice them. If symptoms are present, they may include:
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Irregular bleeding
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
If left untreated, it can progress to endometritis, salpingitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease, potentially leading to infertility or blocked fallopian tubes. Infection during pregnancy also carries the risk of the baby becoming infected during childbirth (neonatal conjunctivitis, pneumonia). Since the throat and anus can also be infected, site-specific testing is important.
Throat (Pharyngeal) and Anal Infections
Throat infections are usually asymptomatic, but some people may experience discomfort, mild pain, or itching. Pharyngeal chlamydia is known to be even less symptomatic than genital chlamydia, often progressing without any symptoms. Anal infections also rarely cause strong symptoms, usually limited to mild itching or discomfort.
Possible Symptoms of Pharyngeal Chlamydia
If symptoms do appear, they may resemble those of a common cold or general pharyngitis, such as:
- Throat discomfort, scratchy throat
- Mild throat pain or swelling
- Discomfort when swallowing
- Cough or hoarseness
While some people look for visible changes, pharyngeal chlamydia rarely causes distinct visual changes and cannot be identified by photographs. Significant changes to the tongue itself are also uncommon; often, the throat appears normal or shows only mild signs of pharyngitis. Therefore, infection cannot be determined solely by appearance or presence of symptoms; confirmation requires testing.
Unlike a common cold, pharyngeal chlamydia does not clear up with over-the-counter cold medicines. If you have persistent throat discomfort or are concerned about possible infection, a throat swab or gargle test can be performed.
Chlamydia Incubation Period and Transmission Routes
Approximate Incubation Period
Chlamydia infection does not always show symptoms immediately after infection. The incubation period is generally estimated to be about 1 to 3 weeks, but this is an estimate and varies individually. A major characteristic of chlamydia is that many cases are "asymptomatic" even after the incubation period. Even during the asymptomatic or incubation period, if the bacteria are present in the body, there is a possibility of transmitting the infection to a partner. If you are concerned about the timing of infection or the presence of symptoms, do not self-diagnose; getting tested will provide peace of mind.
Main Transmission Routes
Chlamydia is transmitted through sexual contact, from mucous membrane to mucous membrane. The main transmission routes are as follows:
- Genital-to-genital contact (vaginal intercourse)
- Transmission between the throat (pharynx) and genitals through oral sex (mouth-to-genital contact)
- Rectal infection through anal sex
- Rarely, contact via fingers contaminated with infected bodily fluids
- Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth, infecting the newborn
Chlamydia is not a blood-borne disease, and it is generally not transmitted through daily activities such as bathing, sharing towels, or using toilet seats.
Why infection can occur even without "knowing" or "outside of infidelity"
Many people are confused when diagnosed with chlamydia but have no idea how they got infected. However, for the following reasons, the cause is not always recent behavior:
- Long incubation and asymptomatic periods: There are cases where infection occurred through past sexual contact and remained asymptomatic for a long time.
- Infection through oral sex: Throat (pharyngeal) infections are often overlooked, and infection can occur even without vaginal intercourse.
- Both partners were asymptomatic: If one or both partners were infected without symptoms, it becomes difficult to pinpoint the time or route of infection.
Chlamydia is a very common STI, and infection itself is not a reason to blame anyone. Instead of searching for the cause, it is important for both you and your partner to get tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
Chlamydia Testing Methods
Types of Tests
| Test | Content |
|---|---|
| Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (PCR, TMA, etc.) | A sample is collected from the infected area and tested with high sensitivity to determine if an infection is currently present. This is the basic test for diagnosis. |
| Antibody Test (Blood) | Checks for past infection. It does not identify the infected site, and a positive result can persist long after treatment, so it cannot be used to diagnose current infection. |
Collection Method
| Site | Specimen |
|---|---|
| Male | Urine |
| Female | Vaginal discharge collected with a swab (preferably after menstruation) |
| Throat | Gargle solution |
| Anus | Specimen collected with a swab |
When to Get Tested
While nucleic acid amplification tests can detect the infection relatively early, it is generally recommended to wait 1 to 2 weeks after potential exposure to ensure accuracy. If you test negative early but are still concerned, retest after some time.
Test at home, and if positive, proceed directly to treatment.
Chlamydia Treatment
Medication and How to Take It
Chlamydia is treated with oral antibiotics. The appropriate medication depends on the infected site, pregnancy status, and co-existing STIs.
| Option | Dosage Guide | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Doxycycline | Twice a day for 7 days | Standard treatment. Also used for throat and anal infections. Take with plenty of water and do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking. |
| Azithromycin | Single dose | No worries about forgetting doses, completed in one go. |
| Pregnant individuals | As determined by a doctor | Doxycycline cannot be used, so an alternative medication is chosen. |
The specific medication used will be determined by the doctor during the consultation. Even if symptoms disappear, complete the prescribed course of medication. Stopping prematurely can leave bacteria behind, leading to recurrence or resistance.
Things to Avoid During Treatment
- For single-dose medication: Avoid sexual activity for 7 days after taking the medication.
- For multi-day medication: Avoid sexual activity until you finish taking it (or until symptoms disappear, if present).
- In all cases, we recommend refraining from sexual activity until your partner's treatment is complete.
Confirmation Test After Treatment
This is a common misunderstanding. Nucleic acid amplification tests can detect the DNA of dead bacteria, so a test immediately after treatment might show a "still positive" result.
| Timing | Details |
|---|---|
| 4 weeks or more after treatment completion | This is when a test to confirm cure can be taken. Earlier tests cannot be interpreted correctly. |
| 3 months after treatment | We recommend retesting to check for reinfection. Reinfection can occur even if your partner has been treated. |
Also consider other STIs
Individuals diagnosed with chlamydia are also recommended to get tested for gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. Dual infection with gonorrhea is particularly common, occurring in approximately 20-30% of cases. Our STI testing allows you to check for multiple items at once.
Does Chlamydia Self-Heal? What Happens If Left Untreated?
It generally does not heal naturally
Chlamydia infection generally cannot be expected to heal naturally. Even if symptoms become milder or disappear, it does not mean the infection is cured; the bacteria may remain in the body, leading to an asymptomatic course. Appropriate antibiotic treatment is the surest way to eradicate the bacteria.
What can happen if left untreated
- Women: The infection can spread from the cervix to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Inflammation of the fallopian tubes is associated with a risk of future infertility and ectopic pregnancies.
- Men: The infection can spread from the urethra to the epididymis, causing epididymitis.
- Newborns: Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth can lead to neonatal conjunctivitis or chlamydia pneumonia.
Do not self-diagnose and leave it untreated just because symptoms have disappeared. It is important to undergo follow-up observations and re-tests as instructed after treatment.
Preventing Chlamydia Infection
If you have a partner, it's crucial for both individuals to get tested and treated. If only one person is treated, "ping-pong infection" can occur, leading to repeated infections. The following measures are effective for prevention:
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
- Utilize DoxyPEP (post-exposure prophylaxis for STIs).
- Avoid contact with individuals suspected of infection.
- Undergo regular STI testing.
Even with mild symptoms, chlamydia should not be left untreated; early detection and treatment are crucial.
Mona's Chlamydia Treatment (Online Consultation)
| STEP | Content |
|---|---|
| 1. Order & Pre-consultation Questionnaire | Select your desired options and place an order. Then, complete the questionnaire we send you, including your symptoms, potential exposure activities, and affected areas. |
| 2. Online Consultation | A doctor will review your information via video call and determine the eligibility for prescription and the appropriate medication. |
| 3. Shipping | Your order will be delivered in discreet packaging that protects your privacy. |
| 4. Post-Treatment Confirmation | We recommend confirming cure 4 weeks or more after treatment, and checking for reinfection 3 months later. |
We also offer at-home STI testing kits. If you are concerned about infection, you can test at your convenience.
Precautions for Treatment
- This service is private medical care (self-pay). Health insurance is not applicable.
- The effectiveness varies from person to person. Common side effects include diarrhea, loose stools, nausea, and rarely, liver function abnormalities have been reported.
- To prevent reinfection (ping-pong infection), it is crucial to consider simultaneous testing and treatment for your partner.
- Refrain from sexual intercourse until treatment is complete, and do not stop taking the medication on your own judgment even if symptoms disappear.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic illness, or are taking any medications, please be sure to inform us during the medical interview.
You can start treatment today.
