Research has been carried out at Swansea University on how the womb detects and responds to bacteria. The results may lead to a breakthrough in cures and treatments for infections like chlamydia and pelvic inflammatory disease, infections that can lead to infertility.
The womb reacts to infection in a completely different way to the rest of the body.
The research team reports that the womb uses cells that are not normally used in immunity to find and interact with bacteria. The scientists discovered cells in the lining of the womb that were responsible for responding to infection.
This discovery marks the beginning of more research into possible preventative methods and treatments for some of the most damaging infections, such as chlamydia.