Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the cervix and may cause symptoms such as vaginal discharge, pelvic discomfort, painful urination or bleeding between periods.
However, you may have symptoms that may not be noticeable.
Dr Shanujeet Kaur, Associate Director – Department of Fertility at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chandigarh, says that the lack of symptoms does not rule out gonorrhoea, which is why appropriate screening can be important for women with risk factors.
How Can Gonorrhoea Affect Fertility?
The main fertility concern is not simply having gonorrhoea but what can happen when the infection remains untreated.Gonorrhoea can spread upwards from the cervix into the uterus and fallopian tubes. This may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to inflammation and scarring of the reproductive organs.
When the fallopian tubes become damaged or scarred, it may become more difficult for an egg and sperm to meet. Tubal damage can also increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, in which a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus.
Dr Shanujeet Kaur explains that the effect on fertility largely depends on whether gonorrhoea has caused PID or permanent damage to the reproductive tract. A history of gonorrhoea therefore does not automatically mean that you will have difficulty conceiving.
Why Is Early Treatment Important?
Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of complications. If you are diagnosed with gonorrhoea, your doctor will prescribe appropriate antibiotics based on current treatment guidance.It is important to complete the treatment exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. Your sexual partner or partners may also need evaluation and treatment. This can help reduce the risk of passing the infection back and forth.
You should also follow your healthcare provider's advice about when it is safe to resume sexual activity after treatment. Avoiding sexual contact during the recommended period helps reduce the chance of transmitting the infection or becoming reinfected.
Dr Shanujeet Kaur adds that repeat testing may also be recommended because reinfection with gonorrhoea is possible. A new infection can again increase the risk of complications if it remains untreated.
Can You Get Pregnant After Gonorrhoea?
Yes. A previous gonorrhoea infection does not automatically mean that you will have fertility problems. Many women can conceive after appropriate diagnosis and treatment, particularly when the infection has not caused PID or permanent reproductive tract damage.If you are planning pregnancy and have had gonorrhoea in the past, discuss your sexual and reproductive health openly with your gynaecologist. Depending on your history, your doctor may recommend screening or further assessment.
Dr Shanujeet Kaur highlights that appropriate screening, prompt treatment and prevention of reinfection can help protect future fertility. Seeking care early is particularly important because treatment can address the infection, while established damage to the reproductive organs may not be reversible.
Gonorrhoea does not necessarily prevent pregnancy. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of PID and reproductive-tract damage, while preventing reinfection can further help protect your fertility.
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FAQs on Gonorrhoea and Fertility: What Women Should Know
- Can gonorrhoea cause infertility in women?
Untreated gonorrhoea can cause PID, which may lead to scarring and damage of the fallopian tubes. This can affect fertility. However, having had gonorrhoea does not automatically mean that you will become infertile. - Can gonorrhoea be treated before pregnancy?
Yes. Gonorrhoea can be treated with appropriate antibiotics. Completing treatment and following advice about sexual activity and partner treatment can help reduce complications and reinfection. - Can you have gonorrhoea without symptoms?
Yes. Many women with gonorrhoea have few or no symptoms. If you have risk factors for an STI or are concerned about a possible exposure, speak with your healthcare provider about appropriate testing.