Transmission, symptoms and screening for lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)

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.

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