Transmission, symptoms and screening for lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)
How is LGV transmitted?
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) can be transmitted, even in the absence of symptoms, during:
- Sexual intercourse (oral, vaginal or anal) with an infected person
- Contact between genital organs (even without penetration or orgasm with vaginal lubrication or ejaculation)
- The sharing of sex toys
An infected woman can also transmit the LGV to her baby during childbirth.
What are the symptoms of LGV?
First stage (3 to 30 days after infection)
- Small, painless bumps at the site of infection (vagina, vulva, cervix, penis, rectum, mouth, throat)
Second stage (2 to 6 weeks after the first bumps appear)
- Blood loss through the rectum
- Painful and swollen lymph nodes in the groin and thighs
- Flu-like symptoms
Third stage (chronic LGV)
- Severe edema to the genitals or stigmas (scarring, swelling and deformities) if infection is not treated
How to get tested?
- Detection of chlamydia trachomatis by a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)
- Genotyping of LGV associated sub-types of C. trachomatis (NAAT)
- Swabbing of the throat, urethra, cervix or rectum with a cotton swab
Need more information?
For more information, do not hesitate to contact Biron’s customer service at 1 833 590-2712.