Method of Treatment
Oral antibiotics
Length of Treatment
Approx. 21 days
Further Actions
• Inform partners of infection or encourage them to seek STI screening.
• Avoid sex for 21 days.
• Chlamydia test after 2 weeks of finishing treatment.
Locations
London & Birmingham, or Receive by Post
Fees
£90 (£30 if you tested with us)
Journey Overview
#1 Book an Appointment
If you tested with us, you can usually book directly for treatment.
If you tested elsewhere, a consultation will first be required so that one of our clinicians can review your symptoms, medical history, and test results. Bringing evidence of your positive result is recommended where possible.
#2 Receive Treatment
If treatment is clinically appropriate and safe to proceed, you will be asked to attend the clinic for treatment.
#3 Further Actions
You will need to avoid having sex for 7 days and ensure your partner(s) are also tested & treated.
Patient Feedback
FAQs
LGV is treated with a longer course of antibiotics than standard chlamydia. Treatment is aimed at clearing the infection, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications.
Our care includes:
• A confidential consultation and assessment of your symptoms and sexual history.
• PCR testing using a swab or urine sample where appropriate.
• A 21-day course of antibiotics, usually doxycycline, if LGV is confirmed.
• Clinical review of any swollen lymph nodes, sores, or other symptoms if needed.
• Follow-up to monitor your recovery and answer any questions.
Yes. Recent sexual partners should be informed so they can be tested and treated if necessary, even if they have no symptoms.
UK guidelines generally recommend notifying partners from the four weeks before your symptoms started or before your positive test if you had no symptoms. Avoid all sexual contact until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and your clinician advises it is safe to resume.
LGV treatment is highly effective when taken as prescribed. Most people are successfully treated with a 21-day course of doxycycline.
Symptoms often begin to improve within a few days, but it is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to fully clear the infection and reduce the risk of complications or recurrence.
The antibiotics used to treat LGV are generally well tolerated, but side effects can occur.
Common side effects include:
• Nausea or indigestion.
• Mild diarrhoea.
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Take doxycycline with plenty of water and avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes afterwards to reduce irritation of the food pipe. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop severe side effects or an allergic reaction.
Doxycycline is generally avoided during pregnancy. Instead, alternative antibiotics that are considered safe in pregnancy are prescribed.
Your clinician will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your stage of pregnancy and medical history. Completing the full course of treatment is important, and follow-up may be recommended to confirm the infection has cleared.
No. LGV cannot be treated with home remedies or over-the-counter medicines.
It requires prescription antibiotics. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications, so you should seek medical assessment if you think you may have LGV.
Most people notice an improvement within a few days of starting antibiotics.
However, the full treatment course lasts 21 days, and it is important to complete all medication even if your symptoms improve sooner. Avoid sexual contact until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and your clinician advises it is safe.
No. Menopause does not reduce the effectiveness of LGV antibiotics.
However, menopausal changes such as vaginal dryness or thinning of genital tissues may make symptoms feel more uncomfortable or prolong recovery. If this is affecting you, speak to your clinician about treatments that may help relieve these symptoms.
If your symptoms continue after completing treatment, arrange a follow-up assessment.
Your clinician may recommend:
• A physical examination.
• Repeat testing to check whether the infection has cleared.
• Investigation for another cause of your symptoms.
Avoid sexual contact until you have been reviewed and advised that it is safe.
Treatment failure is uncommon but can occur.
Possible reasons include:
• Not completing the full course of antibiotics.
• Reinfection from an untreated partner.
• A different condition causing similar symptoms.
If symptoms persist or return, you should be reassessed. Further testing and, in some cases, additional treatment may be needed.
Yes. Follow-up is usually recommended after LGV treatment.
Your clinician may arrange a test of cure, typically around 3–4 weeks after treatment, particularly if symptoms persist or there are concerns about treatment success. Follow any advice on when it is safe to resume sexual activity.
Yes. Recent sexual partners should be assessed, tested, and usually treated, even if they do not have symptoms.
Treating partners helps prevent reinfection and reduces the spread of LGV. Your clinician can also provide support with confidential partner notification if needed.
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.