Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect the eyes, causing discomfort, visible changes and, in some cases, loss of vision. At The London Clinic Eye Centre, we offer a dedicated service to diagnose eye problems linked to STIs in a confidential, discreet and non-judgemental setting.
STIs and the eyes – eye sexual health services
Also known as: Sexually transmitted eye infections, Ocular STIs, STI-related eye inflammation
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How STIs can affect the eyes
Although most STIs do not involve the eyes, certain infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes viruses and HIV-related infections can cause inflammation in different parts of the eye. This may lead to red eye, discharge, pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light or more serious complications affecting the cornea, retina and/or optic nerve.
Examples of STI-related eye problems include:
- Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the surface of the eye and inner eyelids).
- Keratitis (inflammation of the clear front surface of the eye).
- Uveitis (inflammation inside the eye).
- Retinal problems, which can threaten sight if not treated.
- Eyelid lesions or growths.
Who this service is for
This service is designed for:
- People with confirmed or suspected STIs who develop new eye symptoms such as redness, discharge, pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity.
- People with unexplained eye symptoms who are worried there could be a link to recent sexual contact or an STI.
We welcome patients who may feel anxious or embarrassed about their symptoms and provide care without judgement.
What to expect at your appointment
During your visit to The London Clinic Eye Centre, you will be seen by an eye specialist experienced in infections and inflammation affecting the eye. You can either self-refer or be referred by your GP or another doctor, with appointment timing based on urgency and same-day or early review offered for more serious cases. If you do not already have a sexual health specialist involved in your care, we can also help connect you with appropriate services so that the underlying STI is treated alongside your eye condition.
Step 1 Talk to a specialist
Your consultant will ask about your symptoms, general health and any known or suspected sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to guide your assessment.
Step 2 Have a detailed eye examination
You will have a detailed eye examination and, where needed, further eye tests such as scans or photographs of the back of the eye, including OCT and specialist retinal imaging.
Step 3 Targeted tests to guide treatment
Your consultant may recommend swabs or blood tests, including a full on-site "uveitis panel" with HIV and syphilis tests, Quantiferon, ACE, chest X-ray and, where needed, hepatitis B and C tests if syphilitic uveitis is suspected.
Step 4 Receive tailored treatment
We provide treatment to manage both the eye condition and the underlying STI, such as eye drops, tablets or injections/infusions tailored to your diagnosis.
Our expertise
Our consultants are experts in their field and are experienced in looking after patients who may feel embarrassed or distressed by their symptoms. Care is confidential, respectful and focused on achieving the best possible outcome for your vision and overall wellbeing.
How to refer or book an appointment
Worried about STI-related eye symptoms? We offer rapid access to specialist advice. You can self-refer to The London Clinic Eye Centre, or ask your GP or another doctor to refer you. Urgency is assessed case by case, with same-day or early review offered for more serious cases.
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Get in touch to discuss your eye symptoms in confidence
Discreet, specialist assessment of STI-related eye problems at The London Clinic Eye Centre in central London, on Harley Street.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Get answers to questions you may have about symptoms, confidentiality, referrals and next steps at The London Clinic Eye Centre.
Urgency is assessed case by case. Syphilis-related eye problems and other ocular inflammation are usually seen within days by a uveitis specialist. Corneal infections – including gonococcal or herpes simplex keratitis and other severe surface conditions – may need same-day review by a corneal specialist. HIV-related and opportunistic eye infections are also managed by our uveitis specialists, in close liaison with your wider care team.
The London Clinic Eye Centre focuses on diagnosing and treating the eye complications of STIs, including treating the infection in the eye and/or controlling the ocular inflammation, protecting the vision.
Management of the underlying STI itself, including systemic treatment, is provided by sexual health or infectious diseases services, and we work closely with those teams to coordinate your care.
Yes. Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes viruses and HIV-related conditions can all affect the eyes in different ways, sometimes causing serious problems if left untreated.
The London Clinic Eye Centre treats the eye complications of STIs and helps protect your sight. You will usually also need to see a sexual health specialist to treat the underlying infection, and we will work closely with them to coordinate your care.
Your clinician will ask some sensitive questions so they can understand whether your eye symptoms might be linked to an STI. You can choose how much you wish to disclose, but honest answers help us assess your condition and recommend the right tests and treatment.
Yes. As with all services at The London Clinic, your information is treated in confidence and shared only with the healthcare professionals directly involved in your care, unless we are required to share information by law.
Many people who come to us with worrying symptoms discover that their eye problem is not related to an STI but to something more common, such as dry eye, allergy or another eye condition. At The London Clinic Eye Centre we will explain your diagnosis, recommend any treatment you need and, if appropriate, suggest regular eye check-ups to monitor your eye health over time.