According to Dr Mannan Gupta, Chairman & HOD, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi, infections can lead to inflammation, scarring, and blockage of reproductive organs. This blog post will shed light on infections and their effect on male and female fertility.
“Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of infections can help protect reproductive health and reduce the risk of fertility-related complications.”
- Dr Mannan Gupta, Chairman & HOD, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi
How Do Infections Affect Female Fertility?
In women, an infection can migrate up the reproductive tract, affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. This results in PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), which is capable of damaging the reproductive organs.Recurrent or undiagnosed infections will result in inflammation and scarring. Scar formation in the fallopian tubes will lead to a constriction or blockage of the tubes, thus preventing conception by blocking the path of the egg and sperm.
The damage caused by infections may lead to an increased risk of:
- Fertility issues
- Fallopian tube obstruction
- Pelvic adhesions
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Ectopic pregnancy
How Do Infections Affect Male Fertility?
Infection may occur in various organs of the male reproductive system, such as the testicles, epididymis, and prostate gland. Any inflammation of these organs may hinder sperm production, mobility, or transportation.Occasionally, swelling or scar tissue resulting from infection may block the reproductive pathways that are used for sperm transfer. In this case, sperm release during ejaculation may not be possible.
Male fertility may be impacted by:
- Number of sperms
- Sperm motility
- Quality of sperm
- Sperm production
- Sperm transportation
Which Other Infections Can Affect Fertility?
Infections like STIs are not the only ones that can negatively impact fertility. Some other infections can affect reproductive health as well. These include the following:- Mumps: This is a viral contagious illness causing salivary gland swelling. In males, it can inflame the testicles and reduce sperm production, while in females it doesn't have much effect.
- Tuberculosis: TB can affect fertility in women by damaging the uterus or fallopian tubes and in men by affecting the testes or reproductive tract.
- Gonorrhoea and chlamydia: In females, it may cause PID and fallopian tube damage. In males, it can cause epididymitis, inflammation, and scarring that interfere with sperm production
Can Fever Affect Male Fertility?
A high fever during an infection can temporarily impact sperm production. The testes work at a temperature that is slightly cooler than the core temperature of the body. An increase in body temperature will affect the development of sperm cells.Since it takes some time to produce sperm cells, it means that the consequences of having a fever will last even after you have recovered from the illness.
How are Infection-Related Fertility Problems Diagnosed?
The evaluation is based on your symptoms and past medical history, along with the presence of any other fertility issues. A doctor may suggest:- Screening for sexually transmitted diseases
- Blood and urine tests
- Vaginal/cervical swab tests
- Semen analysis
- Ultrasound scan
- Tests for assessing the health of the fallopian tubes
- Other fertility tests if required
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment varies based on the infection. In case of bacterial infections, one may need antibiotic treatment, prescribed by a doctor. It is also crucial to complete the treatment, even if the symptoms ease up during the course.In case of STI-related infections, it would be best for your partner to also undergo tests and treatments to lower the chances of reinfection.
Preventive steps which you may take include:
- Safe sex
- Using a condom
- Tests for possible STIs
- Seeking treatment for any discharge or pain in the genitals
When Should You See a Doctor?
If there is any abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, pain during urination, swelling in the testicles, or other signs of an infection, a visit to a doctor is recommended.Always seek advice from your doctor and never choose self-medication. Every infertility case is different, and it is not always caused by infections alone. There could be several other reasons that can lead to male and female infertility that can be diagnosed only by a doctor.
Infections can affect fertility in both men and women, but timely care can help reduce these risks. Protect your reproductive health through safe sexual practices, regular testing, prompt treatment, and medical follow-up. If you are struggling to conceive or have a history of infection, speak with a fertility specialist early for appropriate evaluation and guidance.
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FAQs on How Infections Affect Female and Male Fertility
- Can a past infection affect fertility years later?
Yes, an infection treated years earlier may have left scarring or blockages that can affect fertility even after the infection itself has cleared. - Can infections affect ovulation?
Some infections may temporarily disrupt the menstrual cycle or reproductive function, although infections are not a common cause of ovulation problems. - Should both partners be treated for a sexually transmitted infection?
For certain sexually transmitted infections, treating both partners is important to reduce the risk of passing the infection back and forth. Follow the treatment plan recommended by the doctor.