The Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in Women Attending Health Clinics in Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is a common cause of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and a prevalent microorganism found in the vaginal discharge of sexually active women. The infection usually has no symptoms; although it may cause chronic complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, tubal infertility and cervical cancer. This study was done, for the first time, in Shiraz (southern Iran) to determine the prevalence of genital C.T in women. A total of 402 women who referred for routine pap smears to randomly selected health centers in Shiraz were tested with the IMAGEN Chlamydia test, a direct immunofluorescence test for the detection of Chlamydia in human urogenital specimens. The results of this test were compared to the socio-demographic condition of each participant as well as their sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms, both present and past. The prevalence rate of Chlamydia infection was 8% (32/402). No correlation was found between this infection and age, marital age, number of children, education and occupational status of the participants. On the other hand, the correlation between the presence of infection and a positive history of STD symptoms, both present and past was significant. Chlamydia infection is quite frequent in our society, where knowledge about STD infections is scant. Considering the sequelae of this infection and the fact that this is a quiet disease, it seems rational to screen sexually active women and inform them more about this issue.