Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis in Singaporean women undergoing termination of pregnancy

Abstract

Introduction: The primary objective is to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection among 200 women seeking termination of pregnancy (TOP) at National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore. The secondary objective is to determine the existence of high-risk sexual behaviours/practices among these women. Materials and Methods: Two endocervical swabs were taken from these women; one was transported in Chlamydia transport medium at 2°C to 8°C, while the other was transported in a dry swab at room temperature and analysed with ligase chain reaction/enzyme immunoassay. Demographic data was collected with regard to relevant risk factors in a standard questionnaire. Results: 8% (16/200) of the women were found to be positive for Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Both the wet and dry methods of transport were equally effective in detection. 16.2% of the women in ≤25 years old group were positive versus 3.1% in the ≥25 years old group (P