Can urinary tract infection cause infertility?

UTIs also known as Urinary tract infections are the most common bacterial infections among women. They tend to affect the urinary system (urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys),and in severe cases may also result in infertility.  Although UTIs are not among the most common infections affecting fertility, severe, recurrent, or untreated infections may indirectly affect reproductive health.

UTIs and reproductive health

UTIs are caused by infection of the urinary tract more commonly by a bacteria known as Escherichia coli (E. coli) — this bacteria is present in our gastrointestinal system. Infection with E. oli occurs when stool is clean from back to front resulting in bacteria to reach the urinary tract and cause infection. When infection of the urinary tract is not treated for a long period of time it can affect surrounding tissues which may include reproductive organs, affecting fertility by causing blockages and adhesions due to chronic infection. UTIs can also occur in men but rarely affects fertility— it may result in low sperm count, poor motility of sperm and inflammation of the reproductive organs. 

Preventable causes of infertility

Preventing potential fertility complications related to UTIs involves reducing the risk of developing UTIs in the first place. Here are some precautions that can be taken to prevent getting infected from UTI:

• Wiping front to back after using toilet
• Staying well hydrated
• Using the washroom after intercourse
• Maintaining a good genital hygiene
• Getting evaluated by a health care professional if you are having any symptoms of UTI

Symptoms of UTIs

Here are some common symptoms of UTI:

Burning sensation during urination

Frequent urge to urinate

Passing small quantity of urine more frequently

Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine

Lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort

Fever, chills, or back pain in more severe cases

Diagnosis of infection- related fertility

UTIs are often diagnosed when patients present with any sign or symptoms of urinary tract infection. Once the patient is suspected of an infection relevant tests are advised such as complete urine examination for a confirmed diagnosis. It is important to start treatment for UTIs once the symptoms begin to prevent progression of infection to result in infertility. However, if a patient presents with infertility due to infection levels, tests to evaluate fertility are often advised to see the extent of damage and plan a relevant treatment plan.

Treatment for infection- induced fertility problems

Infertility treatment due to infections begins with treating the root cause with antibiotics. It is important for patients to complete the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare professional. Once the infection is treated steps are taken to clear up damage caused by infection on the reproductive organs. Adhesions or blockages are treated with minor surgery to remove the blockages. However, in cases of severe damage advanced infertility treatments are required. Female infertility treatment may require procedures such as ovulation induction followed by ova-pickup for IVF. Other treatment options include IUI and ICSI.

Male infertility treatment due to infection are mainly sperm retrieving procedures in cases of low sperm count or problems with the ejaculatory ducts.

Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic

At Njinksy our doctors are well aware about the complications caused by UTI and provide a relevant and effective plan to treat UTI. Along with this our clinic is equipped with advanced technology to help our patients with fertility related problems. We offer Assisted reproductive techniques to patients who are unable to conceive naturally. Our clinic provides a treatment plan which includes both female and male partners. We give hope to our patients for a new beginning and ensure their journey to parenthood is filled with compassion and trust.