This infection of the fallopian tubes can result in tube blockage that will prevent future pregnancies. It can result in abscesses of the tube, which can rupture, cause a widespread abdominal infection and even death. As with syphillis, gonnorrhea can be treated with antibiotics if the diagnosis is made early. Infected partners should also be identified and treated. Chlamydia is the most common STD in American women, striking as many as 40 percent of sexually-active women.
Incidence is also on the rise.
This infection by an atypical bacteria, Chlamydia trachomatis, targets the female endocervix and is more common in those who use oral contraceptives. In these women there tends to be more exposed endocervical tissue in the vagina, which increases the risk of infection. Most women, however, have no symptoms. As with gonorrhea, complications of chlamydia infection includes infertility due to infection of the fallopian tubes. Antibiotic treatment is a cure when the diagnosis is made.