Chlamydia infection

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and often causes no noticeable symptoms. After a positive test result, guideline-based antibiotic treatment can, subject to the doctor's assessment, be initiated entirely via video consultation – discreetly, without a waiting room, and with a digital private prescription.

Medically reviewed by Adi Zoabi, Approbation als Arzt.
Last reviewed on August 31, 2026. Updated as clinical guidelines change.

Overview

Chlamydia is among the most common sexually transmitted infections in Germany. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which is transmitted primarily through unprotected sexual intercourse. A large proportion of infections cause no noticeable symptoms and therefore go undetected for a long time. Left untreated, however, a chlamydia infection can ascend and cause inflammation of the uterus and fallopian tubes in women, and of the epididymis and prostate in men. Possible long-term consequences include chronic lower abdominal pain and infertility. A confirmed chlamydia infection can usually be treated well with antibiotics. If you already have a positive test result – for example from a laboratory or a certified mail-in test – the medical consultation and, subject to the doctor's assessment, the issuing of a private prescription can take place entirely via video call. There is no waiting room to visit: treatment is discreet, encrypted and handled from home. Billing is provided as a private medical service according to the German GOÄ fee schedule.

Common causes

Chlamydia is transmitted almost exclusively through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral intercourse. Sharing sex toys can also enable transmission. Because many infected people notice no symptoms, they pass the bacteria on unknowingly – which explains the high prevalence, especially among younger adults. Risk factors include frequently changing sexual partners, not using condoms, and an untreated infection in one's partner. During childbirth, an infected mother can also transmit the bacteria to her newborn, which can cause eye and lung infections. A past infection does not confer immunity: anyone who does not protect themselves, or whose partner remains untreated, can become reinfected immediately. This is why informing and treating sexual partners is a fixed part of therapy.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if you notice burning when urinating, unusual discharge, bleeding between periods or pain during intercourse – or if a sexual partner has tested positive for chlamydia. Even without symptoms, a test is advisable after a risk contact. Visit a practice or clinic in person promptly if you develop severe or worsening lower abdominal pain, fever, painful swelling of a testicle or a pronounced feeling of illness: these signs may indicate an ascending infection that requires a physical examination. Pregnant women with a confirmed infection need dedicated medical care. If you notice signs of a medical emergency – such as high fever with chills and circulatory problems, extremely severe abdominal pain or impaired consciousness – call the emergency number 112 immediately.

Symptoms & Indications

Burning or pain when urinating Unusual discharge from the urethra or vagina Itching or redness in the genital area Pain or a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen Bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse Pain during sexual intercourse Pain or swelling in the testicular area Often no noticeable symptoms at all

Treatment Options

Doctor-prescribed, guideline-based antibiotic therapy after a positive test (e.g. with tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline)
Medical consultation on the test result, symptoms and next steps via video call
Informing and testing sexual partners to prevent reinfection
Abstaining from sexual intercourse until treatment is completed
Using condoms to prevent new infections
Follow-up examination or retesting as recommended by the doctor

Important Notes

A video consultation does not replace a physical examination. If you experience severe lower abdominal pain, fever or painful testicular swelling, please visit a practice or clinic in person promptly.
A prescription is issued only after an individual medical assessment. A positive test result is a prerequisite; there is no entitlement to a specific medication.
During pregnancy, a special treatment approach is required. Please explicitly mention an existing or possible pregnancy during the consultation.
If you notice signs of a medical emergency – such as high fever with chills, extremely severe abdominal pain or circulatory problems – call the emergency number 112 immediately.

HOW IT WORKS

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STEP 02

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STEP 03

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Medical notice: Not a substitute for an in-person medical examination. The information on this page is intended for general guidance only. In an emergency, please call 112.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive chlamydia treatment entirely online?

Yes, provided a positive test result is available – for example from a laboratory, a testing centre or a certified mail-in test kit. During the video consultation, the doctor discusses your result, symptoms and medical history with you. Subject to the doctor's assessment, a private prescription for a suitable antibiotic can then be issued, which you can redeem at any pharmacy. The decision always rests with the treating doctor.

What does the treatment cost, and will my private health insurance cover it?

The video consultation is billed as a private medical service according to the German medical fee schedule (GOÄ). Privately insured patients can usually submit the invoice to their insurer or Beihilfe; reimbursement depends on the individual plan. Self-payers see the costs transparently before booking. The cost of the medication at the pharmacy may apply in addition.

Does my partner need to be treated as well?

Yes, this is strongly recommended from a medical point of view. If sexual partners are not examined and, where necessary, treated, mutual reinfection can occur – the so-called ping-pong effect. Therefore, inform current and previous partners so that they can also get tested and seek medical advice.

How discreet is the treatment?

The entire consultation takes place as an encrypted video call – with no waiting room and no in-person contact. Your information is subject to medical confidentiality and is processed in Germany in accordance with GDPR standards. You receive your private prescription digitally and can redeem it at a pharmacy of your choice.

When am I no longer contagious after treatment?

Abstain from sexual intercourse for the entire duration of the antibiotic course and, as a rule, for seven days after completing therapy. This protects your partners and prevents reinfection. Whether a follow-up test makes sense is something your doctor will discuss with you individually – for example in the case of persistent symptoms or during pregnancy.