AlfredHealth
Part of the Alfred Health Network
HOME HOW URGENT ARE MY SYMPTOMS WHAT TESTS DO I NEED? WHERE CAN I BE TESTED? ABOUT STIs GET THE FACTS CONTACT
Disclaimer Privacy
HOW URGENT ARE MY SYMPTOMS WHAT TESTS DO I NEED? WHERE CAN I BE TESTED? ABOUT STIs GET THE FACTS CONTACT
  1. Home
  2. Get the facts
  3. Lymphogranuloma venereum
Lymphogranuloma venereum

Also known as LGV

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an STI caused by certain strains of chlamydia which can be passed on during sex without a condom.

Quick facts

  • LGV is an STI caused by chlamydia
  • LGV can cause pain, discharge or bleeding in the anus or ulcers on the genitals
  • The test sample you provided for chlamydia is sent back to the laboratory for further testing
  • Treatment is usually a longer course of antibiotic tablets

What is this?

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an infection caused by certain strains of chlamydia (types L1 - L3). It can infect the genitals or anus and may spread to the lymph nodes in the groin area.

How do you get it?

LGV can be passed on through anal or vaginal sex without a condom with a person who has LGV. 

You can get LGV even if the person with LGV has no symptoms.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms vary widely but may appear from 3 - 30 days after infection.

Vagina

If you have a vagina, the first sign of infection is an ulcer on the vagina or cervix, which often goes unnoticed. The infection then spreads to the lymph nodes in the groin area. These glands become swollen.

Penis

If you have a penis, the first sign of infection is an ulcer on the penis. The infection then spreads to the lymph nodes in the groin area. These glands become swollen.

Anus

If you have had anal sex without a condom with a person infected with LGV, it can cause pain in the anal canal, discharge or bleeding and the feeling of being unable to properly empty your bowels.

How do you test for it?

When your doctor suspects LGV as a result of a positive chlamydia test as well as your symptoms, the sample you provided for chlamydia is then sent back to the laboratory for further testing. The results may take a few weeks.

How is it treated?

LGV is treated with a long course of antibiotics, typically 3 weeks.

If your doctor thinks it is likely you have LGV, they may suggest starting treatment before the test result is available.

How can I protect myself?

Your best protection against getting chlamydia and LGV again is by:

  • letting your sexual partners know about your chlamydia and LGV infection
  • making sure that your current sexual partners are also treated for chlamydia and LGV
  • using condoms with any future partners

Where can I get help?

  • Visit a sexual health service near you
  • Visit your local doctor
  • Visit your local community health centre

Related videos

You should know chlamydia

This animation provides information and education about chlamydia, including prevention, symptoms and treatment.

Produced by Youth Projects

What's involved in a sexual health check

Zane thinks he needs a chlamydia check and books in to his local community health clinic in country Victoria. A humorous clip about what to expect visiting a sexual health clinic, made by young people who found out for themselves just how easy it is to book in and get checked.

Disclaimer

This fact sheet provides general sexual health information and is not intended to replace the need for a consultation with your doctor.

If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your doctor.

If you require urgent care, you should go to your nearest Emergency Department or call 000.

How urgent are my symptoms?
What tests do I need?
Where can I be tested?
Related fact sheets
Chlamydia Pelvic inflammatory disease

Disclaimer

This fact sheet provides general sexual health information and is not intended to replace the need for a consultation with your doctor.

If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your doctor.

If you require urgent care, you should go to your nearest Emergency Department or call 000.

Helping to keep you safe, healthy and STI free

We acknowledge the people of the Kulin Nation, the traditional custodians and pay our respects to their culture and their Elders past, present and emerging. We welcome all cultures, nationalities and religions. Being inclusive and providing equitable healthcare is our commitment.

© Copyright 2021 Alfred Health Victoria Disclaimer Privacy
Built with love by Thirst Studios