Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and acceptability of screening in asymptomatic women attending antenatal clinics

Abstract

Antenatal genital tract infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is associated with a two to threefold risk of preterm birth. The prevalence of CT in women attending antenatal clinics is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of infection and acceptability of screening for CT in an asymptomatic antenatal population. Women attending antenatal clinics in Glasgow (Princess Royal Maternity Hospital) and Aberdeen (Aberdeen Royal Infirmary) were asked to provide a first void urine sample for screening for CT using the ligase chain reaction. Women were also sent a postal questionnaire which asked for their views of screening. The prevalence of CT was highest in the under-20 age group, with a percentage prevalence (95% CI) of 12.1% (8.6 – 16.7) (see Table). Neither the presence of symptoms or signs of infection nor parity were correlated significantly with the risk of CT carriage. 77% of women thought that antenatal clinics were appropriate settings for screening for CT.