Biological Marker(s)
Specific LGV Chlamydia DNA
Window Period
2 weeks
Sample Required
M: rectal/penile swab
F: vaginal/cervical swab
Turn Around Time
4 working days (exc. sat/sun & holidays)
Locations
Fees
£150
Journey Overview
LGV testing is not routinely offered at sexual health clinics.
If you have symptoms that could be caused by LGV, or you have tested positive for chlamydia and your healthcare professional thinks you may have LGV, you may be offered further testing.
A sample is usually taken from the affected area, such as the rectum, penis, vagina or cervix. The sample is first tested for chlamydia. If chlamydia is found and you have symptoms that could be linked to LGV, the sample may then be tested specifically for LGV.
A test called a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test looks for genetic material from the bacteria that causes LGV. This helps your healthcare professional confirm whether you have an LGV infection and choose the right treatment.
#1 Pre-Appointment Questionnaire
To help make your appointment as efficient and informative as possible, we ask you to complete a short questionnaire before attending.
#2 Consultation
We will begin by assessing your medical & sexual history, any symptoms you may be experiencing and discuss any questions you may have.
#3 Sample Collection
If it is still appropriate to proceed with the LGV test (and you would like to), we will take a swab from the appropriate areas.
#4 Receive Results
Results are usually available within 4 working days.
If your result is positive, we can provide treatment advice and discuss whether partner notification or follow-up testing may be appropriate.
Patient Feedback
Eligibility
Best For
Identifying specific chlamydia strains to ensure the correct medical treatment.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
Testing is safe while pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult our Specialists.
Menstruation
You can be tested for LGV while on your period.
Prior/Repeat Use
Consult our Specialists for repeat LGV testing and support.
Do NOT use if
You have severe symptoms.
Avoid/Discuss if
Following a positive chlamydia result.
FAQs
LGV testing is usually a two-step process. First, a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT/PCR) checks for chlamydia. If the result is positive, the laboratory performs further testing (genotyping) to determine whether it is the LGV strain.
Testing may involve:
• A rectal swab (most common if you have rectal symptoms)
• A urine sample
• A swab from a sore or swollen lymph node, if present
This approach helps ensure an accurate diagnosis and the correct treatment.
Preparation depends on the type of sample being collected.
• If you may need a urine sample, avoid passing urine for around 2 hours before your appointment.
• If you may need a genital or rectal swab, avoid using creams, medications, or internal washes in the area for 24 hours beforehand.
• You do not need to fast or change your diet.
It is also helpful to know when your symptoms started or when a possible exposure occurred.
The recommended window period for LGV testing is 2 weeks after potential exposure.
If you develop symptoms before then, such as rectal pain, discharge, sores, or swollen lymph nodes, you should seek medical advice without waiting. If you test before 2 weeks and the result is negative, repeat testing may be recommended after the window period for a more reliable result.
LGV testing uses a highly sensitive method called a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), which detects the genetic material (DNA) of Chlamydia trachomatis.
If chlamydia is detected, the laboratory performs genotyping to identify whether it is one of the LGV strains (L1, L2, or L3). This helps distinguish LGV from standard chlamydia and ensures the correct course of treatment is prescribed.
LGV testing is highly accurate when performed on the correct sample using a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).
If chlamydia is detected, additional laboratory testing identifies whether it is an LGV strain. Testing the site where symptoms or exposure occurred, such as the rectum, provides the most reliable results.
Testing too soon after exposure may reduce accuracy, so following the recommended window period is important.
You should get tested as soon as possible if you have symptoms such as rectal pain, discharge, bleeding, sores, or swollen lymph nodes in the groin.
If you do not have symptoms but think you have been exposed, it is best to wait 2 weeks before testing for the most accurate result. If a sexual partner has been diagnosed with LGV, you should also arrange testing promptly.
A physical examination is usually only needed if you have symptoms.
Your clinician may examine the affected area if you have sores, swollen lymph nodes, rectal pain, or discharge. If you have no symptoms, a physical examination may not be necessary.
Yes. LGV testing always starts with a standard chlamydia NAAT. If the result is positive, the laboratory performs genotyping to identify whether the infection is caused by an LGV strain.
The sample collected depends on where the infection is suspected and may include:
• A rectal swab
• A genital or cervical swab
• A urine sample
• A swab from a sore or swollen lymph node
The most appropriate sample is chosen based on your symptoms and potential exposure.
You can receive your test results by either text or email.
The results will be either NOT Detected (i.e. negative) or DETECTED (i.e. positive).
In some cases, the test may come back as equivocal which means that it was not possible to gain a conclusive result from the sample given. If this happens, we will request another sample free of charge.
Yes. Avoid all sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex, until you receive your results. You should also avoid sharing sex toys.
If your test is positive, avoid sex until you and any current partners have completed treatment. This helps prevent transmission and reinfection.
LGV is treatable with antibiotics, most commonly a 21-day course of doxycycline. It is important to complete the full course, even if your symptoms improve sooner.
If your test is positive, you should:
• Start treatment as advised.
• Avoid sexual contact until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment.
• Inform recent sexual partners so they can be tested and treated.
• Attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
Yes. Recent sexual partners should be informed so they can be tested and treated if necessary. This helps prevent reinfection and reduces the spread of LGV.
If you are uncomfortable telling partners yourself, many sexual health services can assist with confidential or anonymous partner notification.
Yes. A certificate of your LGV test results can usually be provided if you need one for official purposes.
You may be asked to provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or driving licence, before the certificate is issued. If you need specific information included, let your clinician know at your appointment.
Page last reviewed by Mrs Shaliegh Scott on 18 September 2026 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.