Men may have infections of their reproductive tract. These may
include infections of the prostate (prostatitis), of the epididymis
(epididymitis), or of the testes (orchitis).
Post-pubertal viral infections of the testes may cause significant damage (atrophy) of the testes and may cause absolute and irreversible infertility. Bacterial infections or sexually transmitted diseases may cause blockages at the sperm ducts. The patient may have normal production of sperm, but the ducts carrying it are obstructed.
Active bacterial or viral infections may have a negative effect on sperm production or sperm function. White blood cells, which are the body's response to infection, may also have a negative effect on sperm membranes, making them less hearty.
If excessive white blood cells or bacteria (more than one million/cc) are seen in a semen specimen, cultures should be done. This usually includes cultures for commonly asymptomatic, sexually-transmitted diseases including mycoplasma, ureaplasma, and Chlamydia. Also, a general genital culture is usually taken. If the infection and the white blood cells are persistent, antibiotics may be considered.
It is important to note that, in most men, the ejaculate is not sterile. In controlled studies, the average man will culture positive for approximately two organisms. It is therefore very important to be judicious in the treatment of non-sexually-transmitted organisms found on cultures.
Post-pubertal viral infections of the testes may cause significant damage (atrophy) of the testes and may cause absolute and irreversible infertility. Bacterial infections or sexually transmitted diseases may cause blockages at the sperm ducts. The patient may have normal production of sperm, but the ducts carrying it are obstructed.
Active bacterial or viral infections may have a negative effect on sperm production or sperm function. White blood cells, which are the body's response to infection, may also have a negative effect on sperm membranes, making them less hearty.
If excessive white blood cells or bacteria (more than one million/cc) are seen in a semen specimen, cultures should be done. This usually includes cultures for commonly asymptomatic, sexually-transmitted diseases including mycoplasma, ureaplasma, and Chlamydia. Also, a general genital culture is usually taken. If the infection and the white blood cells are persistent, antibiotics may be considered.
It is important to note that, in most men, the ejaculate is not sterile. In controlled studies, the average man will culture positive for approximately two organisms. It is therefore very important to be judicious in the treatment of non-sexually-transmitted organisms found on cultures.
Active bacterial or viral infections may have a negative effect on sperm production or sperm function. Please contact us to know more about possible factors affecting male infertility.
