Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections spread primarily through sexual contact, and they can have wide-ranging impacts on health. Beyond immediate symptoms, some STDs can lead to serious long-term complications affecting reproductive health in both men and women. These complications can ultimately result in infertility, making it difficult or impossible to conceive a child. Understanding these connections is important for protecting one’s reproductive future.
Key STDs Leading to Infertility
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are common bacterial STDs and significant contributors to infertility, especially in women. In 2022, there were nearly 200,000 reported cases of chlamydia and over 82,592 new cases of gonorrhea in the UK alone, with millions of cases reported in the US annually. These infections often present without noticeable symptoms, allowing them to progress undetected. This asymptomatic nature delays diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of the infection spreading and causing more severe health problems, including those that impair fertility. Syphilis, a bacterial infection, can also indirectly affect fertility if left untreated, as its systemic effects can impact reproductive health in both sexes.
How Infertility Develops in Women
Untreated STDs, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, are a leading cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that occurs when bacteria spread from the vagina or cervix to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. This upward spread of infection causes inflammation, which can lead to scarring and blockages within the fallopian tubes.
The fallopian tubes are tubes that transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, and damage to these tubes can prevent the egg and sperm from meeting, thereby causing infertility. It is estimated that 10-15% of women with untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea will develop PID, and among those, about 20% may become infertile. Beyond infertility, tubal damage from PID also increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy, a condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.
How Infertility Develops in Men
While less common than in women, STDs can also impair male fertility. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most frequent STD causes of epididymitis, which is an inflammation of the epididymis. The epididymis is a coiled tube located at the back of the testicles responsible for storing and transporting sperm.
Inflammation or infection of the epididymis can lead to blockages in the sperm ducts, hindering the passage of sperm. In some cases, epididymitis can also cause damage to sperm production and quality. Untreated or severe cases of epididymitis can result in long-term damage, potentially leading to a significant reduction in sperm count (oligozoospermia) or even the complete absence of sperm (azoospermia) in about 10% of cases.
Preventing Infertility Caused by STDs
Preventing STD-related infertility involves safe sexual practices and regular health screenings. Consistent and correct use of barrier methods, such as condoms, during sexual activity can significantly reduce the risk of contracting STDs. Open and honest communication with sexual partners about sexual health history and STD status also plays a role in prevention.
Regular STD screening is important for prevention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea for all sexually active women younger than 25, as well as older women with risk factors like new or multiple sex partners. Early detection and prompt treatment with antibiotics can prevent the infection from progressing and causing irreversible damage to the reproductive system.