Published on Sep 12, 2024 | 10:10 AM
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more common than you might think, affecting millions of people every year. They’re usually spread through sexual contact, but some can also be passed from a mother to her baby during childbirth or through blood.
STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, often share similar symptoms—things like unusual discharge, pain when you pee, or itching. This makes it difficult to tell which one you might have just based on symptoms alone. While a doctor is your best resource for accurate guidance, we’ll break down the main differences between chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis in the sections below.
To help you better understand the differences between these three common STIs, here’s a quick comparison of their causes and symptoms:
Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis often share similar symptoms, such as unusual discharge, pain during urination, and discomfort during sex, which can make it difficult to tell them apart.
However, there are some key differences. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are more likely to cause testicular pain in men and bleeding between periods in women, while trichomoniasis is often associated with intense itching or irritation, particularly in the genital area, and a frothy, sometimes foul-smelling discharge.1, 2, 3, 4
Despite these differences, all three infections can sometimes be asymptomatic, underscoring the importance of regular testing for anyone who is sexually active.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis are often diagnosed through swab or urine tests, but in many cases, they can be identified based on symptoms alone. While testing before treatment isn’t always required, it’s a useful tool for ensuring accurate diagnosis, especially when symptoms overlap.
After completing treatment, it’s highly recommended to undergo a follow-up test to confirm that the infection has fully cleared. This post-treatment test helps to prevent any lingering infection and reduces the risk of complications or reinfection. Taking this extra step ensures peace of mind and supports long-term sexual health.
Despite these differences, all three infections can sometimes be asymptomatic, underscoring the importance of regular testing for anyone who is sexually active.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis are often diagnosed through swab or urine tests, but in many cases, they can be identified based on symptoms alone. While testing before treatment isn’t always required, it’s a useful tool for ensuring accurate diagnosis, especially when symptoms overlap.
After completing treatment, it’s highly recommended to undergo a follow-up test to confirm that the infection has fully cleared. This post-treatment test helps to prevent any lingering infection and reduces the risk of complications or reinfection. Taking this extra step ensures peace of mind and supports long-term sexual health.
Treating chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis is usually straightforward, but it’s important to follow through with the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is completely cleared:
It’s important to note that if you are diagnosed with multiple infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis at the same time, a doctor will prescribe a combination of medications to effectively clear all infections. Be sure to complete each medication course as directed for full recovery.
Preventing chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis involves practicing safe sex and staying proactive about your sexual health. Always use condoms correctly, and make sure to have open discussions with your partners about STI testing.
Regular screenings are essential, especially if you have multiple partners or are starting a new relationship, as many STIs don’t show symptoms. Limiting your number of sexual partners can also reduce your risk. If you’re treated for an STI, complete the full medication course and avoid sex until a doctor confirms you’re clear. Taking these steps helps protect you and your partners from these and other STIs.
Yes, it is possible to have chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis at the same time, and they can be treated simultaneously. Multiple STIs can coexist, so it’s important to talk to a doctor if you suspect an infection to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment for all infections.
Symptoms of chlamydia typically appear 1 to 3 weeks after exposure, while gonorrhea symptoms usually show up within 2 to 14 days.1, 2
For trichomoniasis, symptoms can appear within 5 to 28 days, but it’s important to note that all three infections can be asymptomatic, meaning you might not notice any symptoms at all.3
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are typically treated with the antibiotics azithromycin or doxycycline.
All three infections can have serious consequences if left untreated, but gonorrhea is often considered the most serious due to its potential to cause more severe complications, such as infertility.3 However, any of these infections can lead to significant health problems, so prompt treatment is crucial for all three.
No, trichomoniasis and chlamydia are not the same. Chlamydia is caused by a bacterium, while trichomoniasis is caused by a protozoan parasite. They require different treatments.
No, chlamydia cannot turn into trichomoniasis. They are caused by different pathogens and are separate infections.
At Call-On-Doc, we offer fast, discreet online STI/STD diagnosis and treatment for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. Our streamlined process ensures you get the care you need without the hassle of visiting a doctor’s office.
Once diagnosed, you’ll get your prescription within 2 hours, allowing you to start treatment quickly and experience relief from symptoms as soon as possible. We also offer 50% off STI treatment for your partner! Trust Call-On-Doc for reliable and discrete care, so you can focus on your health and well-being.
Sources:
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides.
Why “Dr. Google” Is Making Your Health Anxiety Worse – And How to Research Symptoms the Right Way
We’ve all done it. You feel an odd ache or notice a new rash, and your first instinct is to open Google. Within seconds, you’re scrolling through everything from seasonal allergies to life-threatening illnesses—and suddenly, your mild concern feels like a medical emergency.
This kind of “symptom searching” has become second nature for many of us, especially in the digital age. But if you’ve ever walked away from an online search feeling more anxious than informed, you’re not imagining it. Using the internet to self-diagnose can actually make health anxiety worse.
In this blog, we’ll break down why that happens, how to spot the signs of health anxiety, and how to look up symptoms in a healthier, more balanced way.
Apr 24, 2025 | 9:09 AM
Read MoreThe Truth About Medication Expiration Dates – Do Prescriptions Really Go Bad?
You’re digging through your medicine cabinet with a splitting headache, and there it is—an old bottle of ibuprofen from two years ago. The expiration date is long gone. So now you’re asking yourself: Is it safe to take expired medication? Do meds really go bad after the printed date—or is that just a guideline?
We get it. You're not trying to cut corners—you just want to feel better fast. At Call-On-Doc, we're here to help you make the safest, smartest choice for your health. Let's break it down.
Apr 22, 2025 | 2:06 PM
Read MoreHow GLP-1 Medications Work: The Science Behind Feeling Fuller, Longer
If you're looking into options for managing weight or controlling type 2 diabetes, you've probably come across medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists—like semaglutide (Wegovy®, Ozempic®) or liraglutide (Saxenda®, Victoza®). But what do they actually do inside your body?
Let’s break it down in plain English—minus the medical jargon overload.
Apr 16, 2025 | 5:53 AM
Read MoreWhy “Dr. Google” Is Making Your Health Anxiety Worse – And How to Research Symptoms the Right Way
We’ve all done it. You feel an odd ache or notice a new rash, and your first instinct is to open Google. Within seconds, you’re scrolling through everything from seasonal allergies to life-threatening illnesses—and suddenly, your mild concern feels like a medical emergency.
This kind of “symptom searching” has become second nature for many of us, especially in the digital age. But if you’ve ever walked away from an online search feeling more anxious than informed, you’re not imagining it. Using the internet to self-diagnose can actually make health anxiety worse.
In this blog, we’ll break down why that happens, how to spot the signs of health anxiety, and how to look up symptoms in a healthier, more balanced way.
Apr 24, 2025 | 9:09 AM
The Truth About Medication Expiration Dates – Do Prescriptions Really Go Bad?
You’re digging through your medicine cabinet with a splitting headache, and there it is—an old bottle of ibuprofen from two years ago. The expiration date is long gone. So now you’re asking yourself: Is it safe to take expired medication? Do meds really go bad after the printed date—or is that just a guideline?
We get it. You're not trying to cut corners—you just want to feel better fast. At Call-On-Doc, we're here to help you make the safest, smartest choice for your health. Let's break it down.
Apr 22, 2025 | 2:06 PM
How GLP-1 Medications Work: The Science Behind Feeling Fuller, Longer
If you're looking into options for managing weight or controlling type 2 diabetes, you've probably come across medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists—like semaglutide (Wegovy®, Ozempic®) or liraglutide (Saxenda®, Victoza®). But what do they actually do inside your body?
Let’s break it down in plain English—minus the medical jargon overload.
Apr 16, 2025 | 5:53 AM
Feedback from our amazing patients!
"I can’t believe I did not know about this kind of service! This was absolutely perfect for my health concern and they were able to provide me with the necessary medication and with such cinch. Completely recommended this service. For minor health concerns, this can save you an unnecessary and costly trip to an urgent care center."
"Amazing!! Easy and fast! I didn’t have to take my 4 year old into an urgent care where only god knows what germs are there. The doctor sent the script right to my pharmacy within minutes!!!"
"I would give 10 stars if I could! CallonDoc is literally the reason I am recovering instead of suffering as I write this. I was skeptical at first, but I’m not kidding when I tell you I got prescribed my antibiotics and picked it up at the pharmacy within 2 hours. So instead of waiting & paying around 300$...I paid 40$!! I’m very pleased."
Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?