Sexual Health
<p><b>Do STDs cause infertility?</b></p>
<p><b>Good to know</b><br />Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that can pass from person to person through vaginal intercourse, but can also pass on via anal and oral sex. Sexually transmitted diseases rarely pass through open-mouthed kissing.</p>
<p><br />Being infected with an STD may leave you feeling worried about your health in the future, and especially how it will affect your fertility.</p>
<p><br />So, what effect do STDs have on fertility?<br />Untreated STDs, even an asymptomatic case, can eventually lead to an episode of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is one of the leading causes of preventable infertility. Women with PID have scarring on their Fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs. This makes it difficult for sperm to reach an egg and can also lead to an ectopic pregnancy.</p>
<p><br /><b>Which STDs cause infertility?</b><br />Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and Human papillomavirus (HPV) are sexually transmitted diseases that can cause infertility and rarely show symptoms.</p>
<p><br />Though STDs are more damaging to female fertility, if the male has gonorrhoea or chlamydia, it can render him infertile because the infection can block the epididymis (the long, coiled tubes at the back of the testicles that store and carry sperm during ejaculation).</p>
<p><br />Some STDs don't have identifiable symptoms, and you can live with them for years without knowing. Unfortunately, this increases the risk of developing complications like infertility or infecting your future sex partners.</p>
<p><br />The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all sexually active women 25 and younger be screened at least every year for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Women older than 25 who have multiple sex partners, or a new sex partner should also be screened every year. If you do have an STD, be sure that your partner is tested and treated, or you could be re-infected.</p>
<p><br /><b>Be safe</b><br />Early detection and treatment can prevent STDs from transmitting and causing health complications.<br />STD screening is crucial as diseases can remain in your body for years without ever showing signs. Regular screening will help catch asymptomatic infections and can help preserve your ability to have children.</p>
<p><br />Always practise safe sex, use a condom, and maintain mutually monogamous sexual partners. This can help reduce your risk of getting STDs.</p>
