Sexually transmitted infections
Some diseases spread mainly through sexual contact and are called sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Examples include gonorrhoea and syphilis, caused by bacteria, and HIV/AIDS, caused by a virus that attacks the immune system. Bacterial STIs can often be treated with antibiotics, but viral infections such as HIV cannot be cured, only managed. STIs can be prevented by safe practices and screening. Untreated STIs may cause infertility by damaging the reproductive ducts.
Infertility
Infertility means being unable to conceive a child. In men it may be due to a low sperm count or poorly moving sperm; in women it may be due to blocked oviducts or a failure to release ova (no ovulation). Some causes can be treated with hormones or with methods such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), where fertilisation is carried out in the laboratory.
Other reproductive health issues
- Cervical and prostate cancers can develop in the reproductive organs; regular screening detects them early, when treatment is most successful.
- Vaccination against certain viruses can lower the risk of some cancers.
- A balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding smoking, alcohol and drugs all support reproductive health.
- Hormonal imbalances can disturb the menstrual cycle or reduce fertility, and may sometimes be corrected with medical treatment.
Example
A couple who cannot conceive because the woman has blocked oviducts may be helped by IVF, in which ova and sperm are combined outside the body and an early embryo is placed in the uterus.
Remember
Bacterial STIs may be cured with antibiotics; HIV cannot be cured. Prevention, early screening and a healthy lifestyle protect the reproductive system.