Infertility

Alternative names:

barren; inability to conceive; unable to get pregnant

Prevention:

Because infertility is frequently caused by sexually-transmitted diseases, practicing safer sex behaviors may minimize the risk of future infertility. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are the two most frequent causes of STD-related infertility. These diseases are often initially asymptomatic until PID or salpingitis develops. These inflammatory processes cause scarring of the Fallopian tubes and subsequent decreased fertility, absolute infertility or and increased incidence of ectopic pregnancy.

Mumps immunization has been well demonstrated to prevent mumps and its male complication orchitis. Immunization prevents mumps-related sterility.

Some forms of birth control carry a higher risk for future infertility (such as the IUD - intrauterine device). However, IUD are not recommended for women who have not previously had a child therefore women selecting the IUD may be willing to accept the very slight risk of infertility associated with their use. Careful consideration of this risk, weighed with the potential benefits, should all be reviewed and discussed with both partners and the health care provider.