Research backs screening for common infection

An Australian study published in the BJOG has indicated that Chlamydia screening for all pregnant women aged 16 to 25 would be cost-effective.  Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and during pregnancy can lead to complications for both mother and baby.  These include miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight and neonatal pneumonia. However, as many women experience no symptoms, screening may be the only way to identify and treat the infection before complications develop.  Currently in the UK NICE does not recommend screening as part of routine antenatal care.

This study analysed the cost-effectiveness of chlamydia screening for all pregnant women between 16 and 25, no screening at all, and selective screening for those at higher risk of contracting the infection. It compared the costs of the various screening options with the healthcare costs of managing the complications of undetected chlamydia.

Study co-author Dr Jason Ong, from the University of Melbourne, said: “Our study has shown the cost-effectiveness of routine chlamydia screening for pregnant women aged 16 to 25 years in Australia and will strengthen current guidelines and persuade more healthcare professionals to implement screening locally. We may also be able to generalise our results to other settings with similar healthcare systems costs to Australia.”

Dr Paul Fogarty, Senior Vice President for the RCOG, said: “The findings of this study may have implications for the UK as we have similar chlamydia rates in under 25s as the Australian population… It’s essential that women who are pregnant and think they may be at risk of a sexually transmitted infection speak to their GP or midwife so they can get tested and treated as quickly as possible in order to prevent any possible complications.  In general, we recommend that sexually active young people are tested for chlamydia every year and on change of a sexual partner. The test is free, widely available, and does not involve an examination.”

To read more view RCOG article here 

RCM article here