Chlamydia and Pregnancy: Paternity and Risks

Chlamydia trachomatis is a sexually transmitted bacterium. If a pregnant woman tests positive, several scenarios are possible:

• The partner is the source (current or past infection).
• She acquired it from a previous partner (chlamydia can be asymptomatic for months).
• The partner acquired it elsewhere and transmitted it.

Paternity cannot be determined by chlamydia status alone. Genetic testing (prenatal or postnatal) is required for definitive paternity establishment.

Critical for Pregnancy: Untreated chlamydia risks preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, low birth weight, and neonatal conjunctivitis/pneumonia. Both partners must be treated simultaneously (azithromycin or doxycycline—doxycycline contraindicated in pregnancy) to prevent reinfection. Retesting in 3 months is recommended.

Discuss concerns with your obstetrician; they can coordinate testing, treatment, and counseling.