We all know that sexually transmitted infections (STDs) can seriously damage your health. From infertility to cancer, STDs are a serious public health problem.
We get asked a lot about the impact of STIs on all areas of health, especially reproductive health. While it is common for many STDs to cause infertility, we are specifically asked if an STD can affect a man’s sperm count.
In this blog, we will answer this vital question so you can protect your sexual health.
What are STDs?
STDs are infections that are transmitted primarily through sexual contact. This can include vaginal, anal and oral sex, as well as skin-to-skin contact. Common STDs include:
These infections can affect both men and women and often show no noticeable symptoms. Many infections survive and thrive in infected people for weeks, months, or even years before being detected.
The effect of STIs on sperm count
Several STDs can affect your sperm count.
Here’s a closer look at how different STDs can affect sperm health:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are common bacterial STDs that can seriously damage the male reproductive system.
During a chlamydia or gonorrhea infection, the bacteria infect the urethra and urinary tract, causing large amounts of inflammation. This inflammation can reach the testicles and epididymis, causing scarring and blockages. This can impair the body’s ability to produce and transport sperm properly.
Herpes
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections can have an effect on your sperm count.
A study conducted in Iranian men found that HSV infections were associated with reduced sperm counts in some men. Interestingly, a stronger association with reduced sperm count was found with men infected with HSV 1, the virus that tends to cause cold sores. Other meta-analysis conducted by other academics in Iran found that HSV may be a risk factor for reduced fertility and infertility in men, although more research is needed in this area.
In addition to a reduced sperm count, the sores produced by herpes outbreaks can make intercourse very painful. Pain experienced during sex may make it less likely for infected individuals to perform the sexual act successfully.
Syphilis
A syphilis infection has four stages:
- Primary stage: characterized by the appearance of a firm, round chakra where the infection entered the body – usually around the genitals.
- Secondary stage: characterized by the appearance of skin rashes, lesions, fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, weight loss and fatigue.
- Latent stage: where the infection produces no symptoms and lies dormant in the body.
- Tertiary stage: where infections, over a long period of time, damage internal organs, including the brain, eyes, nerves, heart, liver and bones.
During the tertiary stage of a syphilis infection, it is possible for the epididymis to become damaged, increasing the likelihood that it will cause an obstruction to sperm flow. Another condition called obliterative endarteritis can also occur during Tertiary Syphilis, leading to small, fibrous testes.
What to do
Early detection and early treatment of STDs is key to preventing long-term damage to your reproductive health.
Regular testing
If you’re sexually active, get tested for STDs regularly, even if you don’t have symptoms. The test will give you a better picture of your sexual health and allow you to take action if needed.
Seek medical advice
Consult a healthcare professional who can provide guidance on your specific situation. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly reduce the impact of STIs on your reproductive health.
Open communication
Discuss your diagnosis with your sexual partners and any potential partners in the future. Honest conversations can help everyone involved make informed decisions about sexual health.
Fertility support
If you’re trying to conceive, consider seeing a fertility specialist who can provide you with guidance and options to increase your chances of becoming a parent.
Final thoughts
While having an STD can lower your sperm count and affect fertility, it’s not a life sentence. With early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and responsible sexual health practices, you can minimize the impact of STIs on your reproductive health.
If you think you might have an STD, you can get tested with Better2Know. Our Sexual Health Consultants can help you find the right test and clinic for you.
Call the number above to speak to someone today.
