Chlamydia & Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Testing & Treatment in Miami

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Miami, and many people who have them don’t experience symptoms. Without treatment, these infections can lead to serious health complications, including infertility.

This guide covers chlamydia and gonorrhea symptoms, how they spread, testing options, and the best treatment methods available in Miami.

What Are Chlamydia & Gonorrhea?

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are bacterial infections that spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They are especially common among people under 25 years old but can affect anyone who is sexually active.

The good news? Both infections are easily treatable with antibiotics—but only if detected early.

Chlamydia: Symptoms & Risks

How Common Is It?

• Chlamydia is the most reported bacterial STI in the U.S.

• Miami has one of the highest chlamydia rates in Florida.

Symptoms of Chlamydia in Women:

• Unusual vaginal discharge (yellow or green)

• Burning sensation when urinating

• Pain during sex

• Lower abdominal pain

• Bleeding between periods

Why It’s Dangerous:

• Up to 70% of women with chlamydia have no symptoms.

• If untreated, it can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which may cause infertility.

Who Should Get Tested?

• All sexually active women under 25 (annual test recommended)

• Women over 25 with new or multiple partners

• If you have STI symptoms or a partner has tested positive

Gonorrhea: Symptoms & Risks

How Common Is It?

• Gonorrhea cases are increasing nationwide, and Miami has one of the highest rates in Florida.

• It often occurs with chlamydia—many people test positive for both.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women:

• Thick yellow or green discharge

• Burning pain when urinating

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

• Pelvic pain or pain during sex

• Rectal discomfort (if contracted anally)

Why It’s Dangerous:

• Many women experience NO symptoms.

• If untreated, gonorrhea can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and permanent reproductive damage.

Who Should Get Tested?

• All sexually active women under 25

• Anyone with new partners or multiple partners

• If your partner has tested positive for an STI

How Are Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Spread?

Both infections spread through sexual contact, including:

• Vaginal sex

• Anal sex

• Oral sex (can infect the throat)

• Genital-to-genital contact (even without penetration)

Important: You don’t have to have symptoms to spread these infections.

How to Get Tested for Chlamydia & Gonorrhea in Miami

Since many people with these STIs have no symptoms, regular testing is the only way to know if you’re infected.

What’s the Test Like?

• Urine test (simple, non-invasive)

• Swab test (if infection is suspected in the throat or rectum)

Where to Get Tested in Miami?

• Miami Women’s Center (confidential STI testing & treatment)

• Local health clinics & urgent care centers

• Planned Parenthood & county health departments (low-cost options)

How Soon Can You Test After Exposure?

• Chlamydia: Test 1-2 weeks after exposure

• Gonorrhea: Test 5-7 days after exposure

• If you had unprotected sex, get retested in 3 months even if your first test was negative.

Treatment: How Are Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Cured?

• Chlamydia Treatment:

  • A single dose of antibiotics (Azithromycin or Doxycycline) clears the infection.

• Gonorrhea Treatment:

  • Requires an antibiotic injection (Ceftriaxone) plus an oral antibiotic (Doxycycline).

Important:

• DO NOT stop antibiotics early—finish the entire prescription.

• Avoid sex for at least 7 days after treatment to prevent spreading the infection.

How to Prevent Chlamydia & Gonorrhea

• Use Condoms/Dental Dams – Reduces risk but doesn’t eliminate it completely.

• Get Tested Regularly – Early detection prevents complications.

• Limit Partners & Know Their Status – Fewer partners = lower risk.

• Avoid Douching – It disrupts vaginal bacteria, increasing STI risk.

What Happens If You Don’t Treat Chlamydia or Gonorrhea?

• If left untreated, these STIs can cause serious health problems, including:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – Can cause infertility & chronic pain.

• Ectopic Pregnancy Risk – Can be life-threatening.

• Higher HIV Risk – Having chlamydia or gonorrhea makes you more vulnerable to HIV.

• Spreading the Infection – You can pass it to partners without knowing.

Final Thoughts

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are common but easily treatable—if caught early. Regular STI testing is the best way to protect your health.

Need testing or treatment? Contact Miami Women’s Center today for fast, confidential care.