LGV

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection not normally seen in the UK. But since 2004 several hundred British gay men have been infected with it.

LGV is caused by a rare type of Chlamydia bacteria and is cured with antibiotics.

How is LGV passed on?

Men with lots of sexual partners are at most risk. Unprotected anal sex and fisting without latex gloves are the main ways the infection is spread. Using sex toys, like dildoes, on more than one person can also spread the bacteria.

Symptoms

There are three stages to LGV, with different symptoms depending on what part of the body is infected.

Stage one

Three days to three weeks after getting infected a small, painless sore might appear in your mouth or anus, or on your penis. Many people don’t get a sore or notice one.

Stage two

Ten to 30 days later (or longer) your glands may become painfully swollen and you may feel ill and feverish. If you get infected in the anus you can get painful inflammation, ulcers and discharge there. If the infection is in your penis you may get a discharge and the glands in your groin can swell. An infection in the mouth may cause the glands in your neck or armpit to swell.

Stage three

If it is left untreated for a long time, LGV will cause serious lasting damage to your anus or penis.

Treatment

Three weeks of antibiotics can cure LGV if it is treated before stage three.

Protect yourself and others

You can reduce the risk of getting LGV if you use condoms, and use latex gloves for fisting. If you share sex toys, cover them with a fresh condom for each person they’re used with.

If you have any symptoms, especially inflammation of the anus, a check-up at a sexual health (GUM) clinic is strongly advised.