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Pink eye that won't clear up for weeks, or after fluids got in the eye during sex

Also called: Chlamydial conjunctivitis, gonococcal conjunctivitis, chronic pink eye

Pink eye that doesn't clear up after a couple of weeks, or that started after body fluids got in the eye during sex, may be caused by chlamydia or gonorrhea. These eye infections need specific antibiotics and testing. Gonorrhea eye infections can damage vision quickly, so get care promptly.

Common causesChlamydia, gonorrhea, viral infection, allergies
Usually serious?Can be
Get checked ifIt lasts more than 2 weeks, or after sexual exposure
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Most pink eye from viruses gets better in 1 to 2 weeks. Pink eye lasting weeks may be from chlamydia, often with mild discharge and bumps under the eyelid.

Gonorrhea in the eye causes heavy pus, swelling, and pain, and can scar the cornea within days. Newborns can get these infections during birth.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayHeavy pus, swelling, eye pain, or vision changes. Pink eye in a newborn. Pink eye after sexual exposure.
See a doctor soonPink eye lasting more than 2 weeks. Pink eye with genital symptoms.

Causes

Causes include chlamydia, gonorrhea, adenovirus, herpes, allergies, and contact lens problems.

OwieClear has pages on 3 conditions that can cause pink eye that won't clear up for weeks, or after fluids got in the eye during sex. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

Less likely causes

  • ChlamydiaSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    A common bacterial STI.

  • GonorrheaSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    A common bacterial STI that can cause discharge and burning when you pee.

What you can do at home

  • Wash hands often and don't share towels.
  • Avoid touching your eyes.
  • Remove contact lenses.

Medicines

Chlamydia and gonorrhea eye infections need antibiotic pills or injections, not just eye drops. Partners also need testing and treatment.

At the doctor

The provider will test eye discharge.

Questions you may be asked

  • How long it's lasted
  • Discharge
  • Sexual exposures
  • Genital symptoms

The exam

An eye exam.

Tests

  • Eye swab tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea
  • Urine STI tests

Prevention

Lower your risk.

  • Use condoms
  • Wash hands after sex
  • Get regular STI testing

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.