Chlamydia trachomatis infection and the risk of perinatal mortality in Hungary

Introduction: Chlamydial infections of the genital tract are thought to oft en lead to preterm birth, which is the most important perinatal problem in Hungary. Aim of study: A multicenter study was carried out to determine the prevalen ce of Chlamydia trachomatis infection, risk factors for the infection and t o relate the infection to perinatal mortality, accounting for potential con founding effects. Methods: The nucleic acid hybridization method (PACE2 Gen-Probe) was applie d for the examination of Chlamydia trachomatis. Logistic regression analysi s was used to assess risk. Results: A total of 6156 pregnant women were examined for the occurrence of Chlamydia trachomatis. The observed overall rate of chlamydial infection w as 5.9%. Young age (less than 24 years old) (OR and 95% CI:1.6 (1.3-2.0)), unmarried status (1.5 (1.2-1.9)) and the high unemployment rate (2.1 (1.6-2 .7)) were statistically significant predictors of the infection. In logistic regression analysis, chlamydial infection (1.9 (1.1-3.3)). high unemployment rate (1.5 (1.2-2.2)) and low birth weight (1.7 (1.1-2.7) were significant predictors of perinatal mortality. Conclusions: Testing pregnant women for diseases that can be transmitted pe rinatally is an important part of obstetric cart. Screening for C. trachoma tis of unmarried women under 24 years of age is suggested and need increase d observation during labor.