El blog de Gravida

Fertility is a journey filled with hope and, sometimes, uncertainty. At Gravida, we understand that every step towards conception is vital. A crucial aspect of this journey is sexual health, especially how sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can influence fertility. Through this post, we will address this topic with empathy and depth, emphasizing the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment.

The Relationship Between STDs and Female Fertility

STDs can be a silent obstacle on the path to conception. Infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, when untreated, can lead to serious complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), affecting the fallopian tubes and overall reproductive health.

Chlamydia: A Silent Enemy of Fertility

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and is particularly insidious because it often does not present visible symptoms. This characteristic allows the infection to persist undetected and untreated, which can lead to serious reproductive health complications. One of these complications is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the upper reproductive tract that can cause scarring and obstruction of the fallopian tubes. This obstruction is a direct cause of infertility in women, as it prevents the egg and sperm from meeting for fertilization. Moreover, untreated chlamydia increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, a situation that requires urgent medical attention.

Gonorrhea: Deep Impact on Reproductive Health

Similar to chlamydia, gonorrhea is another STD that can proceed without noticeable symptoms, making its detection and timely treatment difficult. Untreated gonorrhea can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), leading to severe consequences for female fertility, such as scarring of the fallopian tubes and obstructions that prevent the passage of the egg, resulting in infertility. Additionally, like chlamydia, gonorrhea increases the risk of ectopic pregnancies, presenting serious risks to a woman’s health. Early detection and treatment of gonorrhea are crucial to prevent these complications and preserve reproductive health.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Its Influence on Fertility

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Although the body can clear many HPV infections on its own, high-risk types can persist and cause cellular changes in the cervix. These changes, if not detected and treated in time, can progress to cervical cancer. Treatment for precancerous lesions or cervical cancer may require surgical procedures that affect the structure of the cervix or uterus, which can negatively impact a woman’s fertility. Procedures such as cervical conization or radical hysterectomy can decrease the chances of conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term. Moreover, some treatments can affect the cervix’s ability to produce adequate cervical mucus, essential for the transport of sperm. Therefore, HPV prevention through vaccination and regular follow-up with Pap tests are essential to protect reproductive health.

The Relationship Between STDs and Male Fertility

STDs not only pose a risk to female reproductive health but also have a significant impact on male fertility. Infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, if left untreated, can lead to conditions like epididymitis and prostatitis, negatively affecting semen quality and the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg.

Chlamydia in Males: Effects on Fertility

In men, untreated chlamydia can cause epididymitis, a painful inflammation of the epididymis (the tube that stores and carries sperm), which can result in testicular pain and, in severe cases, infertility. The infection can also cause prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), which can affect semen quality and, consequently, fertility.

Gonorrhea in Males: Effects on Fertility

Similar to chlamydia, gonorrhea can lead to epididymitis in men. Additionally, if the infection spreads to the urinary tract, it can cause urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), making ejaculation difficult and affecting semen quality. In severe cases, both chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause scarring in the reproductive tract, making it difficult for sperm to pass.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Male Fertility

HPV in men can cause genital warts and, in rare cases, cancer of the penis, anus, or throat. Although HPV itself does not directly affect sperm production, genital warts can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse or even physically block the release of semen. Additionally, there is emerging evidence that HPV can affect semen quality, reducing motility and possibly fertility.

Prevention, Detection, and Treatment: Pillars to Protect Your Fertility

In STDs, prevention and early detection are key. At Gravida, we perform serological analyses to detect any possible infection in all patients starting assisted reproduction treatments. In case of altered results, we prescribe the appropriate medication and provide detailed follow-up to ensure the best care and protection of your reproductive health.

Our commitment is to provide you with a safe and understanding environment, where your health and well-being are our priority. We understand that facing an STD can be a moment of concern, especially when seeking to conceive. That’s why our team is here to support you at every step, offering you the treatment and care necessary to overcome these obstacles and advance towards your goal of forming a family.

Did an STD Affect My Fertility? Commonly Recommended Tests

If you have gone through the experience of having a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and are concerned about how it might have affected your ability to conceive, it is understandable that you would want to take steps to assess your reproductive health. Fortunately, there are specific tests that can offer you clarity and direction in this regard.

For Women: Assessing the Impact on the Fallopian Tubes and Uterus

STDs, especially chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which in turn can lead to the obstruction of the fallopian tubes or damage to the uterus. The most common tests to assess these complications include:

• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This X-ray study uses a dye to visualize the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes, helping to identify obstructions or abnormalities. If you want more information about this test, we recommend you read this post.
• Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct observation of the pelvic organs and detection of any signs of disease or damage.

For Men: Verifying the Health of the Reproductive System

Epididymitis, a possible sequel of STDs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea in men, can affect the quality and transport of sperm. The recommended tests to assess male reproductive health include:

• Semen analysis: Provides valuable information on the quantity, motility, and shape of sperm, key indicators of male reproductive health.
• Scrotal ultrasound: This imaging test can detect inflammation, obstructions, or any other abnormalities in the scrotum and its surroundings.

Conclusion

STDs can be a significant challenge on the path to fertility, but with the right information, prevention, and appropriate treatment, you can overcome these obstacles. At Gravida, we are dedicated to supporting you on this journey, providing care, understanding, and the best medical practices to protect your reproductive health. Remember, you are accompanied at every step of this path towards conception.

If you have concerns about how STDs may be affecting your fertility, or if you wish to start your journey towards parenthood on the right foot, contact us. Our team is ready to offer you a safe and healthy path towards realizing your dream of forming a family. Protecting your fertility is our commitment; let us accompany you on this important journey.