How Do Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Affect Male Fertility?

STIs (infections that are transmitted through sexual contact) are a significant public health concern and can have serious consequences for individuals and their partners if left untreated. However, the impact of STIs on male fertility is a topic that is often overlooked. STIs can affect various aspects of male reproductive health, such as sperm quality, quantity, and motility. In this post, we will explore how STIs can impact fertility for men and how taking an at-home STI test could be a quick and convenient way to check your status.

How Different STIs Impact Your Fertility

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation and scarring of the reproductive tract, which can lead to infertility. Chlamydia can also cause epididymitis, which is inflammation of the epididymis (a coiled tube that stores and transports sperm). This can lead to reduced sperm quality and quantity.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation of the urethra (the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body), which can lead to scarring and blockages. This can affect the ability of the sperm to move through the reproductive tract, which can lead to infertility.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation of the urethra and prostate gland, which can lead to infertility. Trichomoniasis can also cause epididymitis, which can lead to reduced sperm quality and quantity.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation of the liver, which can lead to reduced sperm quality and quantity. Chronic hepatitis B infection can also cause liver damage, which can further affect fertility.

HIV

HIV is a viral infection that attacks the immune system. In men, it can cause inflammation of the testicles, which can lead to reduced sperm quality and quantity. HIV can also cause a range of other health problems, which can affect fertility.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation of the testicles, which can lead to reduced sperm quality and quantity. Syphilis can also cause erectile dysfunction, which can further affect fertility.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation of the liver, which can lead to reduced sperm quality and quantity. Chronic hepatitis C infection can also cause liver damage, which can further affect fertility.

Mycoplasma

Mycoplasma is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. In men, it can cause inflammation of the urethra, which can lead to scarring and blockages. This can affect the ability of the sperm to move through the reproductive tract, which can lead to infertility.

Get Tested for 8 Common STIs from Home

It’s easier than ever before to test for sexually transmitted infections. Now you can perform a simple test for common STIs from the comfort of your home, without having to go into a clinic.

It’s simple:

1. Order your Yoxly test kit from ExSeed and we’ll send it to you in plain packaging.
2. Collect your urine and blood samples using the equipment in the kit, and send it back in the prepaid box.
3. Your test is analyzed in accredited labs and further reviewed by a licensed medical professional.
4. See your results in the My Yoxly portal in just 2 to 5 days.

The standard 6-in-1 STI home test covers 6 of the most common STIs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, Hepatitis B, HIV, Syphilis.

The comprehensive 8-in-1 STI home kit tests for all of the above plus Hepatitis C, and Mycoplasma

For any guys concerned about their fertility and/or sexual health, this at-home kit is an invaluable tool for early detection and a prompt for further treatment if needed, helping to prevent long-term damage to the reproductive system, and can improve the chances of conceiving a child.