Can STI cause infertility?

Am I infertile if I have an STI?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common concern, and they can unfortunately impact your ability to conceive.

These infections, passed through sexual contact, can affect the reproductive health of both men and women, making it harder to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term.

Understanding the different types of STIs, their effects on fertility, and the importance of proactive screening is crucial for safeguarding your reproductive health.

This article explores the link between STIs and infertility, explaining the potential consequences for fertility, and the importance of early detection and treatment.

Read on!

What is a sexually transmitted infection?

STIs are infections that are primarily spread through sexual contact. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, syphilis, and HIV. These infections can have serious long-term consequences, including infertility, if left untreated.

How do STI’s cause infertility?

STIs can cause inflammation and scarring in the reproductive organs. In women, this can block fallopian tubes, hindering the egg and sperm from meeting.

For men, it can damage sperm production or motility, reducing the chances of fertilization. If left untreated, these infections can even lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), further jeopardizing fertility potential.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

• Cause: Untreated STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can ascend from the cervix into the upper genital tract, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

• Impact: PID can result in inflammation, scarring, and blockages in the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from traveling to the uterus for fertilization. This condition can lead to infertility or an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.

2. Tubal Factor Infertility

• Cause: STIs can cause damage to the fallopian tubes, leading to blockages or impairing their function.

• Impact: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes prevent sperm from reaching the egg, thereby causing infertility. This is one of the most common ways STIs contribute to female infertility.

3. Male Infertility

• Cause: STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can also affect male fertility by infecting the epididymis (a tube that stores and carries sperm) and causing inflammation.

• Impact: This can result in decreased sperm quality, motility, and count, making it difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg.

What are the symptoms of STIs?

STIs often present with no symptoms, especially in the early stages, which is why regular screening is crucial. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

In women:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain

• Painful urination

• Bleeding between periods

• Painful intercourse

In men:

• Discharge from the penis

• Painful urination

• Testicular pain or swelling

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical advice promptly.

How do I prevent STIs?

Preventing STIs is key to maintaining reproductive health and reducing the risk of infertility. Here are some preventive measures:

1. Practice safe sex:

• Use condoms consistently and correctly to reduce the risk of STIs.

• Engage in mutually monogamous relationships where both partners have tested negative for STIs.

2. Regular screening:

• Regular STI screenings are crucial, especially for sexually active individuals with multiple partners.

• Early detection and treatment of STIs can prevent complications and reduce the risk of infertility.

3. Vaccinations:

• Vaccines are available for certain STIs, such as HPV and hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated can protect against these infections and their potential impact on fertility.

4. Prompt treatment:

• If diagnosed with an STI, follow your healthcare provider's treatment plan to eradicate the infection and minimize complications.

• Inform your sexual partners so they can also get tested and treated to prevent reinfection.

How do I treat STI-related Infertility?

If an STI has affected your fertility, there are several treatment options available:

1. Antibiotics:

Most bacterial STIs can be effectively treated with antibiotics. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage to the reproductive organs.

2. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART):

• In cases where infertility is due to blocked fallopian tubes or male factor infertility, ART such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be considered.

• IVF involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, and transferring the resulting embryos to the uterus.

3. Surgery:

In some cases, surgical interventions can remove blockages or repair damaged reproductive organs, improving the chances of natural conception.

How Arva can help

Early detection and treatment of STIs are crucial for protecting your fertility.

Arva's at-home fertility test can be a valuable first step. While it doesn't directly test for STIs, it can reveal hormonal imbalances that may be caused by an underlying infection. This can help you seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional.

Additionally, Arva's network of gynaecologists across India provides a safe space for you to discuss any concerns you may have, free from judgment.

These qualified professionals can guide you through STI testing, treatment options, and ensure your reproductive health is optimized for a successful pregnancy.

We’re revolutionizing women’s health in India, one step at a time❤️