Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis in women seeking termination of pregnancy

Fifty consecutive unmarried women seeking termination of pregnancy in Toa Payoh Hospital were analysed to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection as compared to gonococcal infection. Cases harbouring chlamydial infection were followed up to exclude postabortal pelvic infection. Incidence of positive cultures were also compared among the various ethnic groups in the population. Results from the data analysed showed that chlamydial infection was significantly more prevalent than gonorrhoea in our local women seeking therapeutic abortion. However, further research to define the exact size of the problem is indicated.