LGV can sometimes be asymptomatic (does not produce symptoms), however, most individuals start to show symptoms within 3-30 days of being infected.

The most common symptoms that have been seen in the UK occur in the rectum. This includes bleeding, constipation, discomfort during bowel movements, pain, presence of pus, or the presence of an ulcer

In addition to that, swellings may occur in the lymph nodes and most commonly be felt in the armpits, groins and sometimes in the neck. They might be accompanied by pain, fever and sometimes a rash. There may be sores or ulcers in the gluteal or genital region which develop.

The incubation period of the LGV causing pathogen is anywhere from 3 to 30 days after coming in contact with it. This means that the first symptom of the infection can occur anywhere from three days to one month.

The good news is that if caught early, an LGV infection can be completely cured with the right antibiotics, as long as the course of the treatment is completed. However, if left untreated, there are several complications which may occur.

• Fistula: An abnormal “bridge” or connection is formed between the rectum and vagina
• Scarring and/or narrowing of the rectum (and genitals in general)
• Infections in liver, heart or joints
• Long term pain/swelling in groins
• Infertility (in women)
• Encephalitis (rare): This is a condition in which the infection spreads to the brain and inflammation of the organ occurs

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that asymptomatic rectal infections are possible and have been seen. On occasion there are also “self-limiting” sores that have been identified, in which case the infection stays limited to the area where the sores are present.

LGV infection is caused by one of three serotypes of the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis: either L1, L2, or L3. It is spread when an infected individual takes part in unsafe, unprotected anal, vaginal or oral intercourse.

Transmission of LGV is higher in individuals who practice chemsex, group sex, anal fisting, and sharing unclean sex toys. It is important to understand that LGV cannot be passed on by kissing, sharing towels or toilet seats. When left untreated, LGV may cause lasting damage to the anus and rectum which may only be fixed using surgery.

Barrier methods of birth control such as condoms, can greatly reduce the risk of passing or contracting LGV infections, however there is a risk that remains. Condoms are highly effective in preventing pregnancies and transmission of STIs, however there remains a small risk nonetheless.

There is no concrete evidence to suggest that a person can get LGV from kissing.

The best way to protect yourself against STIs, including LGV, is to engage in safe sexual practices. Avoid risky behavior, use protection and get routine testing at a sexual health clinic. It is ideal that individuals and every new partner they may have, get tested prior to sexual intercourse, as a precaution.

LGV infection can be cured if caught early, however if treatment is delayed permanent scarring or worsening of the infection can occur.

Getting the infection once doesn’t make you immune or protect you from it. You should always practice safe sex measures to prevent LGV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Use condoms, get frequent testing for STIs and practice safe sex.

You can prevent the transmission of LGV by wearing condoms, or covering sex toys with a new condom each time they are used. We recommend that you thoroughly clean and disinfect your sex toys after every use.

Whilst LGV in women is less common, it is not impossible. If you have tested positive for LGV and are pregnant, you must start treatment right away.

Rest assured, there are effective medications available and it is possible to prevent complications to you and your child.