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Munich (dpa) - Female infertility is often the result of a chlamydia infection, according to the Munich-based professional association of gynaecologists.
The sexually transmitted disease is the cause of infertility in about half of women affected by the inability to become pregnant, the association estimates.
An infection caused by the bacteria often goes unrecognized and in worst cases results in an infection in the Fallopian tubes, which can lead to infertility. Symptoms such as heavy discharges, itching or a burning sensation when urinating are signs of an infection and require medical treatment. The infection can be treated with antibiotics and the situation can be brought under control.
There is a danger of becoming infected during unprotected sexual intercourse, the association said. Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.
The association also said in the 1980s, people paid closer attention to "safe sex" practices to protect themselves from HIV/AIDS.
But now the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases is increasing in western Europe. Experts say a carefree attitude and a lack of knowledge about the problem are among the reasons.
Copyright 2007 dpa Deutsche Presse-Agentur GmbH
