Opportunistic screening and early diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis infection in sexually active women in a rural area of the Basque Country.

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection has increased in recent years, especially in young women, and can have significant consequences for their sexual and reproductive health.

METHODS

Between February/2017-June/2017, screening for CT infection was offered to women aged 18-35 years who attended the Midwife/Gynecology clinic at Mendaro Hospital (Gipuzkoa), and it was extended between September/2017-February/2021 in those aged 18-25. After providing consent, a clinical-epidemiological survey was completed and a genital sample was obtained. CT was detected using a commercial PCR technique.

RESULTS

A total of 558 women were studied: 412 aged 18-25 years and 146 aged 26-35 years. The prevalence of infection was 7.3% (95%CI 5.4-9.9%), 9.0% in those aged ≤25 years and 2.7% in those older than 25 (p = 0.013). The prevalence was higher in symptomatic women, with more sexual partners, and inconsistent condom use.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of CT infection in women aged ≤25 years indicates the need to implement screening strategies to prevent the consequences of infection and its transmission.