CHLAMYDIA: PREVENTION
This is a particularly clever little bug. Able to infect without causing symptoms, able gradually to cause damage to unsuspecting fallopian tubes, able to render women infertile without very much fuss at all, really.
Some commentators have referred to the ‘silent epidemic’ of chlamydia. Figures from the United States suggest a conservative estimate of three to four million new cases a year there. There are varying rates reported in Australia; between 1 and 4 per cent of women of reproductive age are thought to be infected. Identified risk factors include being under 25 years of age, and having had a new sexual partner within the last twelve months.
Prevention. It really is better than cure.
The cost to the community of blocked tubes is high; in-vitro fertilization is an expensive technology. The emotional cost to a couple who find themselves infertile is high. The pain and suffering which may result from infection can be considerable.
Unfortunately, little is invested in prevention of tubal disease, and chlamydia is a common cause. The humble condom can prevent the passage of this bug, and others. The cost of a condom at the appropriate time may spare a great deal of pain, suffering, and expense later on.
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