New Delhi: Vaginal infection is a myriad problem confronted by women. Most such infections do not result in infertility, but some infections can create abnormal situations within the reproductive system, which interferes with the normal conception process. These infections if not treated on time can become very serious and cause infertility. To know more about infections that can cause infertility, News9Live interacted with Dr Pallavi Prasad- Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Basaveshwar Nagar, Bengaluru.
Types of Vaginal Infections and Their Effects:
Bacterial Vaginosis: This occurs when the balance of the normal vaginal flora is disturbed. Alone, it will not cause infertility, but it could lead to alteration of vaginal microenvironment that can predispose to infections causing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause potential damage to fallopian tubes.
STIs: STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea are some of the most common reasons that cause infertility in women. These STIs can travel from the vagina to the reproductive organs and create inflammation that can cause irreparable damage to the fallopian tubes causing blocked or damaged tubes.
Trichomoniasis: A parasitic infection that can produce inflammation or swelling of both the vagina and cervix. If left untreated, it can lead to further susceptibility of the reproductive organs to other infections, consequently rendering the person infertile.
Human Papillomavirus: While most of it is associated with cervical cancer, some high-risk strains can still lead to cervical alterations which might indirectly affect fertility.
Infections, when not checked timely, travel beyond the vagina into the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. This condition results in inflammation, scarring, and/or blockage of the tubes, thus making conception improbable.
Prevention and Treatment
Timely medical intervention for such vaginal infections is essential in the prevention as well as management of vaginitis. The identification of these diseases would assist in prescribing appropriate treatment to suppress the chances of complications.
If you notice symptoms such as unusual discharge, itching, burning sensation or pain, consult your healthcare provider immediately, as these could be signs of bacterial or vaginal infections, which are best treated with medication when caught early.
The best way to prevent vaginitis is to refrain from douching, since this technique disrupts the balance of natural bacteria in the vagina, thereby making one vulnerable to invasion with pathogenic bacteria.
Wearing cotton underwear that breathes and leaving tight clothing will prevent any additional irritation. Mind your hygiene, but avoid over-washing the area surrounding the vagina as this might wash off the natural oils and create irritation.
Vaginitis does not always cause infertility; however, symptoms would need to be treated as soon and as best as possible to avoid complications.
Infections, when not checked timely, travel beyond the vagina into the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. This condition results in inflammation, scarring, and/or blockage of the tubes, thus making conception improbable. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
