Do Men’s Health get Affected by STIs

by Dr. Praveen B Joshi, Chief Uro-Andrologist and Urological Surgeon, Milann Fertility Hospital , Bengaluru

Men’s reproductive health is mostly an overlooked topic, and among it sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is the most overlooked one. STIs can significantly impact men’s fertility, often without showing any visible symptoms.

Understanding UTIs

STIs are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. These are caused by bacteria or viruses that spread in the body, leading to sexually transmitted disease (STDs). STDs are a group of 20 diseases that can cause specific complications in the body. Common STIs that can affect male fertility include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, and HIV. These infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can be spread even without penetration or the presence of symptoms.

The Silent Impact on Male Fertility
Some STIs may cause noticeable symptoms like pain during urination, genital sores, or discharge. However, many infections remain asymptomatic, especially in men, which means they can silently damage the reproductive organs over time.

One of the most concerning effects of certain STIs is inflammation and scarring of the male reproductive tract, including the testicles, epididymis (where sperm matures), and the vas deferens (which transports sperm). For instance:

● In males, Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause the urethra to become inflamed and lead to urological problems eventually creating infertility.

● HPV can lead to warts on skin and genital area and, in rare cases, affect sperm quality. It can cause persistent infection and progressively turn into genital cancers affecting fertility.

● Herpes Simplex Virus (HSC), genital herpes is most commonly caused by the type 2 virus (HSV-2) and are small blisters that appear on the genitals.

● Syphilis can cause inflammation of testis and directly damage, causing infertility among men.

Infections can also lead to oxidative stress, damaging sperm DNA, reducing motility (the sperm’s ability to swim), and lowering sperm count—all of which can reduce a man’s chances of fathering a child.

Can early detection helps to prevent UTIs
Early detection and proper treatment can save you from causing long-term reproductive damage due to STIs. Bacterial STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, are easily treatable with antibiotics. However, delay in treatment increases the risk of complications. STIs pathogens can affect sperm parameters and functions, particularly when testicular, accessory gland and urethral infections localize the disease agents in proximity to semen.

So, it is always advised to both men and women to undergo regular STI screenings, especially if they are sexually active with multiple partners or are in a non-monogamous relationship. Using protection  consistently and correctly is one of the most effective ways to prevent STIs.

Possible signs to seek medical help
 

It is always better to seek medical advice, whenever you find changes in your body. Here are some symptoms, which you should not ignore:

● sensing a burning sensation during urination

● unusual discharge from the penis

● swelling or pain in the testicles

● sores, bumps, or rashes in the genital area

● pain during intercourse

(VIews are personal)