Chlamydia and gonorrhea are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) caused by bacteria and contracted through oral, anal, or genital sex. While they are technically two separate STDs, their symptoms overlap, making it difficult to be sure which one you have without having a diagnostic test.

Some people who contract chlamydia or gonorrhea also have no symptoms. But if symptoms do occur, they tend to be similar, such as bad-smelling discharge or a burning feeling when you pee.

This article will discuss what you need to know about chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea symptoms

Anyone can contract chlamydia or gonorrhea and never notice the symptoms. With chlamydia, your symptoms may not begin to appear for several weeks after you’ve already acquired the infection. And with gonorrhea, women may not experience any significant symptoms, while men tend to have more severe.

Some of the common symptoms of both these STIs include:

• Burning when you pee
• Abnormal, discolored discharge from the penis or vagina
• Abnormal discharge from the rectum
• Pain in the rectum
• Bleeding from the rectum

Men may also experience abnormal swelling in their testicles or scrotum with either gonorrhea or chlamydia, in addition to pain when they ejaculate.

You can also develop symptoms of STDs in your throat if you engage in oral sex with someone. These symptoms tend to include a sore throat and a cough.

Chlamydia symptoms

Typically with chlamydia, women experience more severe symptoms as the infection progresses into the uterus or Fallopian tubes. This can cause pelvic inflammatory disease. (PID). This can cause symptoms like:

• Fever
• Feeling sick
• Vaginal bleeding
• Intense pelvic pain

Gonorrhea symptoms

In addition to the symptoms above, you may also notice additional rectal symptoms with gonorrhea. These typically include itching, soreness, and pain when you defecate. Women may also see heavier bleeding during their periods and pain during sex.

How are chlamydia and gonorrhea transmitted?

Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are bacterial infections caused by unprotected sexual contact. This means that if you’re having sex without a condom, dental dam, or another protective barrier between you and your partner, you are at a higher risk.

In addition, you can also contract these infections through other sexual contact that doesn’t involve penetration. For example, if your genitals touch someone else’s who’s acquired the infection, you can develop it.

How are chlamydia and gonorrhea diagnosed?

Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are diagnosed using similar methods. These typically include:

• A physical examination to look for symptoms of an STI
• A urine test to check for bacteria that cause chlamydia or gonorrhea
• A blood test to look for signs of a bacterial infection
• A swab culture to take a sample of discharge from your penis, vagina, or anus

Since testing has become more advanced, you may not always need to go into a doctor’s office. Companies like Good MDs allow you to get chlamydia and gonorrhea treatment online. This typically involves taking a urine test to ensure you have an infection, followed by prescribed medication if there is one.

Start a doctor's visit with Good MDs to get chlamydia treatment online today.

Don't let fear of judgment prevent you from seeking the chlamydia or gonorrhea treatment you need. Good MDs provide compassionate, convenient, and affordable telehealth services for sexual, gender, and men's health.

Start your online doctor's visit today and take the first step towards better health and peace of mind. With Good MDS, you can prioritize your sexual health without sacrificing privacy or convenience.