Cervical swabs for Chlamydia trachomatis culture were taken from 527 women presenting for elective termination of pregnancy. Twenty-six patients (4.9%) harboured C. trachomatis; 21 (81%) of these were less than 25-years-old and 21 (81%) were nulliparas. Postoperative pelvic sepsis developed in 11.5% of chlamydia-positive women, in contrast to 3.6% of chlamydia-negative women. Consequently it is suggested that all patients, especially those younger than 25 years, presenting for termination of pregnancy or in whom an intrauterine device is to be inserted should be screened and have treatment commenced for C. trachomatis prior to the operative procedure.
PIP: Cervical swabs for Chlamydia trachomatis culture were taken from 527 women presenting for elective termination of pregnancy. 26 patients (4.9%) harbored C. trachomatis; 21 (81%) of these were less than age 25 and 21 (81%) of these were less than age 25 and 21 (81%) were nulliparous. Postoperative pelvic sepsis developed in 11.5% of chlamydia-positive women, in contrast to 3.6% of chlamydia-negative women. Consequently, it is suggested that all patients, especially those under age 25, presenting for termination of pregnancy or in whom an IUD is to be inserted should be screened and begin treatment for C. trachomatis prior to the operative procedure.