Sexual health & STIs
Chlamydia Symptoms in Men: Signs, Risks and Testing
Most men with chlamydia have no symptoms. Learn the signs to watch for, how it can affect fertility, how testing works and why partners need treatment.
In short: Chlamydia symptoms in men are often absent – many men feel completely fine. When symptoms do appear, they include burning when urinating, a clear or cloudy discharge and testicular pain. Chlamydia is easily tested for and treated, and untreated infection can affect fertility.
What is chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections. It spreads through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Because it often causes no symptoms, many men pass it on without knowing.
Symptoms in men
If symptoms appear, it is usually one to three weeks after exposure:
- Burning or stinging when passing urine
- A white, cloudy or watery discharge from the penis
- Pain or swelling in one or both testicles
- Discomfort in the rectum, discharge or bleeding (after anal sex)
- Sore throat (after oral sex, less common)
Why treatment matters
Untreated chlamydia can lead to:
- Epididymitis, a painful swelling of the tube behind the testicle – see epididymitis causes and recovery
- Possible effects on fertility – see signs of male infertility
- Reactive arthritis in some men
- Passing it to partners, where it can cause serious complications
Testing
Testing is simple – usually a urine sample or swab. Public clinics and sexual health services in South Africa offer confidential testing. It is a good idea to test:
- After a new partner
- If a partner has symptoms or a diagnosis
- If you have any of the symptoms above
- Regularly, if you have more than one partner
Treatment
Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics prescribed by an appropriately registered medical professional. It is important to:
- Finish the full course
- Avoid sex until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment
- Make sure partners are tested and treated
- Retest if advised
Prevention
- Use condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex
- Test regularly
- Talk openly with partners about testing
Other STIs with similar symptoms
Gonorrhoea can cause very similar symptoms, and the two often occur together. See gonorrhoea symptoms in men and STI symptoms in men. Burning can also be a UTI in men.
How we can help
STI testing and antibiotics must come from an appropriately registered medical professional or clinic. Our naturopath in Sandton can support your wider sexual wellbeing and confidence after treatment.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can men have chlamydia without symptoms?
Yes. Most men with chlamydia have no symptoms at all.
What are the first signs of chlamydia in men?
Burning when urinating, a clear or cloudy discharge and sometimes testicular pain.
Can chlamydia affect male fertility?
Untreated chlamydia can cause epididymitis and may affect fertility.
How is chlamydia tested in men?
Usually with a simple urine test or swab at a clinic.
Do partners need treatment for chlamydia?
Yes. Partners should be tested and treated to prevent reinfection and complications.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
