Gonorrhea and infertility

Gonorrhea is an infectious disease that, if chronic or untreated, can lead to sterility. The chronic inflammation caused by gonococcal infection damages the reproductive organs, preventing conception and pregnancy. The organism responsible is the gonococcus Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. The infection occurs with a high probability - from 60 to 90% - during unprotected sexual contact with an infected carrier. The use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of infection, highlighting the importance of protection.

After infection, the first symptoms of gonorrhea usually appear within 3 to 7 days and can vary according to gender. The acute development of the disease is characterized by the following signs:

• Mucus and pus discharge from the genital organs.
• Burning sensation and itching in the urethra.
• Frequent need to urinate.
• Painful urination.

In women, the disease often manifests with poorly identified symptoms, which can lead to an inaccurate diagnosis and delayed treatment. These latent symptoms often lead to chronic progression, which increases the risk of infertility and other complications, including chronic pelvic pain.

What is the link between gonorrhea and sterility?

In men, gonococcal infection affects the urethra and testicular appendages, causing inflammation that can be accompanied by fever, swelling, and pain in the testicles. The inflammation can also extend to the bladder, ureters, and kidneys. In women, the infection can affect not only the urinary system but also the Bartholin glands and the skin of the genital area.

Delayed treatment of gonorrhea significantly increases the risk of infertility, which is why it is important to promptly contact a doctor - gynecologist or urologist. A chronic inflammatory process disrupts the menstrual cycle and can lead to the formation of adhesions in the organs of the female reproductive system, particularly in the fallopian tubes. This significantly complicates the process of conception, increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage, and can also cause chronic pelvic pain. In men, chronic inflammation caused by the gonococcus negatively affects the process of spermatogenesis, which can also lead to conception problems.

Treatment and prevention of gonorrhea

The diagnosis of the disease is based on the clinical picture and the results of laboratory tests. The treatment of gonorrhea includes taking antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Self-treatment or premature cessation of treatment can lead to chronicity of the process, as well as the development of resistance of gonococci to antibiotics, which significantly complicates further treatment and increases the risk of complications, including infertility.

It is important to remember that when gonorrhea is detected, both sexual partners must be treated to avoid reinfection. Prevention of gonococcal infection involves maintaining a long-term monogamous relationship with a partner whose health is proven. The use of condoms when having contact with a new partner also helps reduce the risk of infection. Regular preventive examinations with mandatory smears are necessary to detect infections.

At the NatuVitro clinic, you can undergo a routine examination with qualified specialists and receive advice on the diagnosis and treatment of sterility. Early detection and treatment of gonorrhea will help avoid serious consequences for reproductive health and preserve the possibility of natural conception in the future.

For more information on in vitro fertilization (IVF), see the section on treatments.