Light spotting may not seem like a big deal, but for some women, it’s the first warning sign of chlamydia. If you’ve noticed bleeding between periods or after sex, your body could be warning you about a hidden infection.
Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs, and in many cases, it shows up with subtle or no symptoms at all. Here, we’ll explain how this infection causes unexpected bleeding, what it means, and what to do next.
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What Is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a very common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). It can infect the genitals, rectum, or throat, and it often goes unnoticed, especially in women.
While easily treated with antibiotics, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and pregnancy complications if left untreated in women.
Common Symptoms of Chlamydia in Women
Chlamydia can be tricky to detect, as symptoms are often mild or completely absent, especially in women. When they do appear, they may include:
Abnormal vaginal discharge that may be yellowish or have an unusual odor
Burning or discomfort during urination, which can feel like a urinary tract infection
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain, often mistaken for menstrual cramps
Spotting or bleeding between periods or after sexual activity
Many women don’t notice symptoms, so routine screening is essential, even if you feel fine.
Why Does Chlamydia Cause Bleeding?
Bleeding between periods, after sex, or alongside abnormal discharge or pelvic pain could be a sign of chlamydia. The infection can inflame the cervix or other reproductive tissues, causing irritation and spotting.
If bleeding persists or is unusual, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
When Is Bleeding a Sign of Chlamydia?
If you’re having unprotected sex and experience abnormal bleeding, speak with your healthcare provider. This is especially important if the bleeding is accompanied by pain or unusual discharge.
How Is Chlamydia Diagnosed?
If you think you might have chlamydia, getting tested is the only way to know for sure, and early detection is key to avoiding complications. Discuss any symptoms or potential exposure with your doctor so that they can recommend the appropriate test. Common diagnostic options include:
Swab test: Often used for women to collect a sample from the cervix or vagina
NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test): The most sensitive and reliable method, able to detect even small amounts of the bacteria
Urine sample: Frequently used for men, and sometimes for women, to test for urethral infections
These tests are quick, painless, and can usually be done during a routine visit.
Treatment Options for Chlamydia
Chlamydia is easily treatable with antibiotics, but completing the full course is essential to fully clear the infection. The most common treatments include:
Doxycycline: 100 mg taken twice daily for 7 days
Azithromycin: A single 1-gram oral dose, often used for those who cannot take doxycycline
Both options are highly effective, but treatment won’t work if it’s interrupted or skipped. To prevent reinfection, follow these guidelines:
Avoid all sexual activity during the full course of treatment
Make sure your partner is tested and treated, even if they don’t have symptoms
Follow up with your doctor to confirm the infection is gone, especially if symptoms persist
What Happens if Chlamydia is Left Untreated?
Ignoring a chlamydia infection can lead to serious and sometimes permanent health issues, especially for women. Without treatment, the bacteria can spread and damage the reproductive system, potentially causing:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Infertility due to scarring in the fallopian tubes
Chronic pelvic pain
Increased risk of HIV transmission
Getting tested and treated early is the best way to protect your health and prevent complications.
What You Can Do to Prevent Chlamydia Infections
Chlamydia prevention starts with being proactive about your sexual health and having honest conversations with your partners. A few simple steps can dramatically reduce your risk:
Use condoms consistently and correctly
Limit your number of sexual partners, or get tested regularly if you have multiple partners
Get screened every 3 months if you’re at higher risk
Talk to your partners about STI testing and history
Practicing safe sex not only protects you; it also stops the wider spread of STIs in your community.
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FAQs
What is B Brand?
B Brand is a telehealth company focused on delivering premium quality sexual health products, paired with education and resources to help people make informed decisions. We are your one-stop destination for all your intimate health needs.
How do B Brand consultations work?
To complete a B Brand consultation, all you need to do is answer our quick online medical questions. Your answers are then reviewed by our US medical team, who will decide if you are eligible for treatment, and which medication is best for you.
What is doxy-PEP?
Doxy-PEP means taking the antibiotic doxycycline after sex, to prevent getting an STI. It is like a morning-after pill but for STIs. Taking doxy-PEP reduces your chance of acquiring syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia by about two-thirds.
When should I take doxy-PEP?
Two 100 mg pills of doxycycline should be taken ideally within 24 hours but no later than 72 hours after condomless sex. Condomless sex means oral, anal or vaginal/front-hole sex where a condom isn’t used for the entire time.
What about when I have sex again?
If you have sex again within 24 hours of taking doxycycline, take another dose 24 hours after your last dose. You can take doxycycline as often as every day when you are having condomless sex but don’t take more than 200 mg (two 100 mg pills) every 24 hours.
How should I take doxy-PEP?
• Take doxycycline with plenty of water or something else to drink so that it does not get stuck when you swallow. If your stomach is upset by doxycycline, taking it with food may help.
• Some people are more sensitive to the sun when they take doxycycline, so wear sunscreen.
• Please do not share doxycycline with others.
• Avoid dairy products, calcium, antacids, or multivitamins 2 hours before after taking doxycycline
