Chlamydia during pregnancy: implications and impact on perinatal and neonatal outcomes.

Chlamydia is the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in the United States, with an estimated 3 million cases occurring annually. Untreated Chlamydia can cause severe, costly reproductive and other health problems with both short- and long-term consequences. When Chlamydia coexists with pregnancy, it can have negative consequences for the woman, the pregnancy, and the newborn. Nurses are in important positions to ensure safe health care practices for all pregnant women. Awareness of the perinatal implications and routine screening for Chlamydia in pregnant women will provide safer health care for the mother and her baby.