Fertility and STD's

STD's are a leading cause of infertility in women. Left untreated may STD's result in serious side effects including impaired fertility. It is important all women who are sexually active are routinely screened and treated for STDs to help boost fertility and prevent the risk of serious side effects resulting from infection.

Below we'll discuss some of the more common STDs and their effects on fertility.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the more common STDs in the U.S. and abroad. Every year millions of men and women are diagnosed with chlamydia. A bacteria that usually spreads from vaginal or oral intercourse cause chlamydia. When left untreated chlamydia can result in a condition called PID or pelvic inflammatory disease and epidymitis. These diseases can seriously impair fertility and in some women, when severe, resulting infertility.

Unfortunately many women and men who have chlamydia don't even realize they have it. There are however some signs that may suggest a chlamydia infection. These include unusual or foul smelling discharge, pain on urination, swollen testicles and painful intercourse for women.

If you have any of these symptoms it is vital you seek your health care provider to get proper treatment. Early treatment can help boost your fertility and prevent long term side effects from this disease.

Syphilis

This disease is usually acquired by sexual contact. Syphilis usually results in a rash, sore throat, swollen glands and sometimes sores. When left untreated syphilis can not only impair fertility but also result in serious health problems including psychological impairment. If you are sexually active and have more than one partner, you may be at risk. Seek out the advice of your clinician for more guidance about this condition.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is common among young men and women. Bacteria that reside chiefly among body fluids also cause this disease. Vaginal, oral and anal sex can all spread gonorrhea. Left untreated, like chlamydia gonorrhea can lead to PID or pelvic inflammatory disease, a leading cause of infertility. Other signs and symptoms of gonorrhea include vomiting or nausea, bleeding after intercourse, yellow or bloody discharge from the vagina or greenish or whitish discharge in men. If you have any of these symptoms seek the advice of your health care professional immediately.

Genital Warts

Genital warts are among the most common STDs, and can be spread through vaginal, oral or anal sex. This disease includes more than 100 various strains. While some patients will have no symptoms, others will experience cauliflower like growths in the genital area. Warts may not necessarily impeded fertility, but may impact a woman's chances of delivering safely. Some forms of HPV or genital warts may increase a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer. While there is no cure for HPV, there are many treatment choices available for men and women with this disease.

Herpes

Like HPV, herpes is among the more commonly transmitted STDs. Anyone can contract herpes through skin to skin contact with an infected partner. This disease can't be cured, but doctors can help you control it and treat symptoms effectively. The more common signs of herpes include lesions on the genital areas, vaginal discharge and itching and burning around the vagina and anus. If you have an active herpes infection around the time of delivery, you may need a C-section to prevent spread of the disease to your baby.

Fortunately while STDs are serious, there are many treatments available to men and women who have them. Be sure if you plan to become pregnant you seek the advice of a qualified health professional that can screen and treat you for any STDs you may have. Your doctor can also offer practical advice for preventing infection.