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Why Infections Matter for Male Fertility

Fertility depends on healthy sperm production and the proper functioning of the reproductive system. Infections, whether bacterial or viral, can interfere with both. They may damage sperm quality, block reproductive pathways, or trigger long-term inflammation. Even common conditions, when ignored, can escalate and cause irreversible harm. Issues like poor semen quality or increased scrotal temperature are often linked to infections that men dismiss as minor health troubles.

Gonorrhoea: More Than Just an STI

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection that carries serious risks if left untreated. It usually presents with symptoms such as abnormal discharge, pain during urination, or swelling in the testicles. While these may seem like localised problems, the infection can spread deeper into the reproductive system. If the prostate gland or other areas become affected, sperm production and mobility are directly compromised. Early medical attention is essential to prevent lasting damage.

Chlamydia: Silent But Harmful

Chlamydia is another common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It often appears with signs like unusual discharge or a burning sensation when passing urine. What makes this infection particularly concerning is its ability to create scarring within the reproductive tract. Scarring and blockages make it harder for sperm to move or even be produced in healthy numbers. Left unmanaged, chlamydia can silently reduce fertility over time.

Mycoplasma: An Overlooked Threat

Unlike more familiar infections, mycoplasma is less well known, yet it has a strong link to reduced sperm motility. When sperm cannot swim properly, the chances of successful conception decrease sharply. Awareness about this condition is low, meaning many men might not even realise they are affected. Lack of symptoms and limited testing contribute to the problem, but the reproductive consequences can be significant.

Urinary Tract Infections: Not Just a Female Issue

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often associated with women, but men can suffer from them too. In men, UTIs are frequently caused by bacteria such as E.coli. Symptoms include fever, chills, frequent urges to urinate, and discomfort during urination. While these may seem like general health complaints, untreated UTIs can spread to the testicles and other reproductive organs. The result can be reduced sperm count and poor fertility outcomes.

The Long-Term Consequences of Ignoring Symptoms

When infections are dismissed or left untreated, they rarely remain harmless. Many of them spread, leading to low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or blocked reproductive passages. Over time, these conditions make it harder for couples to conceive naturally. In some cases, the damage caused is irreversible, leaving advanced treatments like assisted reproductive techniques as the only option.

The Importance of Timely Medical Help

For men, recognising symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain while urinating, swelling in the testicles, or recurring fevers should never be ignored. These may be early warning signs of infections that can affect fertility. Seeking medical help at the first sign of trouble can prevent complications. Treatment is usually straightforward when started on time, but delays can lead to serious reproductive issues.

Breaking the Stigma Around Male Fertility

One of the biggest barriers to managing male infertility is stigma. Many men are reluctant to talk about reproductive health problems or seek medical support. By raising awareness that infections are not just minor illnesses but potential threats to fertility, more men may take action early. Open conversations and regular check-ups can safeguard not just personal health but also future family plans.

Conclusion

Infertility is not only a women’s concern—it affects men too, often due to untreated infections. Conditions like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, mycoplasma, and urinary tract infections can reduce sperm health, block reproductive pathways, and make conception difficult. Recognising symptoms early and seeking timely medical help are essential steps in protecting fertility. For men who hope to embrace fatherhood in the future, taking reproductive health seriously today is the best investment.

Reference: https://xenithivf.com/the-impact-of-bacterial-infections-on-male-fertility/

When eggs developed in fluid containing THC, they were more likely to show chromosomal abnormalities. Chromosomes carry the genetic material necessary for healthy embryo development, so errors at this stage can lead to failed fertilisation, miscarriage, or longer times to achieve pregnancy. The eggs exposed to THC also matured at faster rates than those from patients with no signs of cannabis in their samples, which may be another sign of disrupted development.

What the Study Found

In the first part of the research, 1,059 fluid samples from IVF patients were analysed. Out of these, 62 contained detectable levels of THC. Eggs linked with these samples were more likely to show signs of genetic errors compared with those where no cannabis traces were present.

The researchers went further, conducting controlled experiments with unfertilised eggs from 24 consenting patients. They again found that when THC levels were higher, the number of chromosomal errors in the eggs increased. The eggs exposed to cannabis also tended to mature earlier than expected, which could affect the timing of fertilisation and embryo development.

While the results were clear, the researchers stressed that the sample size was small. This means factors like the age of the women, which is already the single biggest risk factor for declining egg quality, could not be fully accounted for. Still, the findings add to growing evidence that cannabis use may not be safe for people trying to conceive.

Why This Matters for IVF Patients

Chromosomal health is central to the success of IVF. An egg with the correct number of chromosomes is more likely to create a healthy embryo that can implant and grow into a pregnancy. Eggs with abnormalities are a major reason why IVF cycles fail or why miscarriages occur.

If cannabis use increases the number of chromosomal errors, it could make IVF less effective. Patients may need more treatment cycles to achieve a pregnancy, or they may face higher risks of failed implantation. For people already dealing with the stress and cost of fertility treatment, any factor that reduces egg quality is significant.

Broader Fertility Concerns

The new research adds to earlier findings from animal studies showing that THC can negatively affect embryo development. Human studies have also suggested that regular cannabis use may be linked to infertility in both men and women. Past research has connected cannabis with lower sperm quality as well, meaning it may affect fertility outcomes for both partners.

While cannabis has recognised medical uses, such as pain relief or easing anxiety, it is not recommended during pregnancy. Experts say it may also be wise to avoid cannabis when trying to conceive, particularly when undergoing fertility treatments such as IVF.

The Safest Approach for Conception

For couples hoping to have children, the safest option is to avoid cannabis in the months leading up to and during fertility treatment. This is especially important since even moderate use could interfere with the delicate processes of egg development, fertilisation, and early embryo growth.

Although more research is needed to confirm the full extent of the risks, the existing evidence suggests that cannabis use adds another potential obstacle for people trying to conceive. IVF is already a challenging and emotional journey for many families, and reducing preventable risks can only help improve outcomes.

Conclusion

The latest study highlights an emerging concern: cannabis use may harm egg quality and reduce the success of IVF by increasing chromosomal abnormalities. While the research is still limited, the potential impact on fertility is enough to warrant caution. Until larger studies provide more answers, avoiding cannabis before and during fertility treatment is the most responsible step for those hoping to start or grow their families.

Reference: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-63011-2

1. Preserve Fertility at a Younger Age

The most compelling reason to freeze your eggs is to preserve fertility while you’re still young. The ideal age to freeze eggs is before 35, as the quality and quantity of a woman’s eggs decrease after this point. According to experts, freezing your eggs in your early 30s gives you the best chance of maintaining your fertility over time. The younger you are, the more eggs you’re likely to produce, and the higher the chances that they will be of good quality, offering more opportunities for a successful pregnancy later in life.

2. Avoid Egg Quality Decline

Egg quality is a significant concern as women age. After 35, eggs are more prone to abnormalities, which can lead to infertility or complications such as miscarriage or genetic disorders. Freezing your eggs before this drop in quality allows you to secure healthy, viable eggs for future use. Studies show that women who freeze their eggs before age 35 have a 50% chance of achieving a live birth, while the chances decrease to 22.9% for those who freeze after 35.

3. Planning for More Children

If you envision having a larger family, egg freezing can give you the flexibility to expand your family at a later stage. For instance, if you have your first child in your mid-30s, by the time you are ready for another, you could be in your late 30s or early 40s, and your fertility may have declined. Freezing eggs provides peace of mind that you have healthy, viable eggs ready to use for future pregnancies, even if you’re not ready to conceive again for several years.

4. Workplace Benefits Are Expanding

Egg freezing is becoming more accessible as companies increasingly offer fertility benefits. In 2024, 21% of companies with 500 or more employees included egg freezing in their fertility coverage, up from 11% in 2020. This growing trend means that many women can now access egg freezing without bearing the full financial burden. If your company offers fertility benefits, it’s worth taking advantage of this opportunity, as it significantly lowers the cost of the procedure and makes it more manageable.

5. Time Commitment for the Process

While egg freezing is not a quick fix, it can be highly beneficial when you have time to dedicate to the process. The entire procedure typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks, from initial consultation and ovarian stimulation to egg retrieval and storage. It requires several medical appointments, hormone injections, and ultrasounds to monitor your egg development. For those who have the time and flexibility to manage the process, egg freezing can be a straightforward way to secure fertility for the future.

6. High Success Rates for Younger Women

Women who freeze their eggs at a younger age tend to have higher success rates when using those eggs later in life. The quality and quantity of eggs in younger women provide a better chance for a successful pregnancy after fertilization. Even though egg freezing can still work for women in their late 30s and early 40s, starting earlier offers the best odds. Fertility experts agree that the sooner you freeze your eggs, the more cost-effective and successful the procedure is likely to be.

7. A Safeguard Against Medical or Genetic Conditions

For women with certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or a family history of early menopause, egg freezing can offer an essential safeguard. These conditions can affect fertility, and freezing eggs early can provide a backup option when natural conception becomes more challenging. Additionally, those about to undergo treatments like chemotherapy that may harm fertility should consider freezing their eggs before starting treatment.

Conclusion: A Long-Term Investment in Your Future

Egg freezing is undoubtedly an investment, both financially and emotionally. However, for many women, it’s a smart choice that provides security and peace of mind. By freezing your eggs before age 35, taking advantage of workplace fertility benefits, and ensuring you have the time and support to go through the process, you are making a long-term investment in your reproductive future. Whether you’re planning a family later in life, managing a medical condition, or simply looking to preserve your fertility, egg freezing can offer an invaluable solution.

Reference: https://www.cbsnews.com/video/egg-freezing-60-minutes-video-2025-08-03/