Characterising the impact of Chlamydia infection on ovarian structure and function

This thesis uses a mouse model of Chlamydia infection to investigate the impacts of infection and inflammation on the ovary. In a new and striking finding, Chlamydia infection can persist in the ovary long-term and cause damage to the quantity and quality of oocytes within the ovary. This is the first time this sexually transmitted infection has been associated with infertility specific to the ovary. This has major implications for female reproductive health outcomes.