Infections in Men That May Affect Fertility

Infertility is often spoken about as a women’s health issue, but men face it too. According to global health data, about one in six adults experience infertility during their lifetime. In India, male infertility is increasingly becoming a concern, yet awareness about the causes remains limited. Many men are unaware that untreated infections can quietly damage reproductive health and reduce the chances of fatherhood. Understanding these risks and recognising symptoms Read More

early can make all the difference.

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/