Prostate and Urinary Tract Infections: Impact on Fertility

Prostate or urinary tract infection?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if prostate and urinary tract infections (as well as chlamydia) are said to cause infertility online.
How long after an infection, without treatment, can it lead to infertility? If infertility occurs, is it permanent or can it be treated? I previously had a chlamydia infection and underwent a two-week antibiotic treatment which improved my condition, but after a month and a half, I experienced some pain during urination again.
After taking antibiotics for a week, my doctor said my white blood cell count was normal.
Recently, I have been masturbating less than three times a week, but my semen is yellowish, and I wake up to urinate once every night.
What could this situation indicate? Should I see a urologist or an infectious disease specialist?

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/31

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello, an infection does not necessarily lead to infertility; it depends on the type of microorganism involved and the duration of the infection.
Additionally, there is no definitive answer in medicine.
Based on your current condition, it still leans towards a urinary tract infection.
I recommend visiting either a urology or infectious disease clinic.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2016/10/31

More Info

Prostate and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can indeed have implications for male fertility, but the relationship is complex and varies depending on several factors, including the type of infection, its duration, and the individual's overall health.

Impact on Fertility
Infections such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and UTIs can potentially affect fertility by causing inflammation and altering the quality of sperm. For instance, chronic prostatitis can lead to changes in the seminal fluid, which may affect sperm motility and viability. Chlamydia, a common sexually transmitted infection, can also lead to complications such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), which may impact sperm transport and fertility.
The timeline for how long an untreated infection can lead to infertility is not strictly defined. Some studies suggest that if an infection is left untreated for an extended period, it could lead to complications that may affect fertility. However, this does not mean that all infections will result in infertility, and many men with infections can still conceive successfully.
If infertility does occur as a result of an infection, it is not necessarily permanent. Many cases of infertility related to infections can be treated, and fertility can often be restored with appropriate medical intervention. This may include antibiotics to clear the infection, as well as other treatments aimed at improving sperm quality and function.

Symptoms and Diagnosis
In your case, experiencing pain during urination and changes in semen color (yellowish) could indicate ongoing inflammation or infection in the urinary tract or prostate. The presence of nocturia (waking up at night to urinate) can also be a sign of urinary tract issues or prostate problems.
It is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. A urologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult, as they can evaluate both urinary and reproductive health. They may perform tests such as a urinalysis, semen analysis, or imaging studies to assess the situation further.

Treatment Options
If you are experiencing recurrent symptoms, it may be necessary to undergo a more comprehensive evaluation. Treatment options may include:
1. Antibiotics: If an infection is confirmed, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed. It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.

2. Anti-inflammatory medications: These can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with prostatitis or UTIs.

3. Lifestyle modifications: Staying hydrated, practicing safe sex, and avoiding irritants (such as caffeine and alcohol) can help manage symptoms and prevent future infections.

4. Fertility evaluation: If you and your partner are trying to conceive, a fertility evaluation may be warranted to assess both partners' reproductive health.

Conclusion
In summary, while prostate and urinary tract infections can impact fertility, the effects are not always permanent, and many men can successfully conceive after treatment. It is essential to seek medical advice from a urologist to address your symptoms and discuss any concerns regarding fertility. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help.

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