7 STIs that affect male fertility

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can silently impact male fertility. Often symptomless, these infections can damage sperm, block reproductive pathways or reduce hormone levels, sometimes before you even realise they are present. In this article, we’ll look at seven STIs that affect male fertility, how they cause harm, and how you can protect your future.

Table of Contents

• STI Symptoms in men
• 7 STIs that affect male fertility
• STI Treatment
• STI Prevention
• Summary

STI Symptoms in men 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in men can present with a range of symptoms, but many cases remain silent until complications arise. Recognizing the early warning signs is important for protecting both reproductive health and fertility.

Common symptoms in men include:

• Genital: sores, blisters, warts, unusual growths, itching/redness, testicular pain or swelling, painful ejaculation.

• Urinary: burning or pain when urinating, frequent urination, penile discharge (clear, white, yellow, green), occasional bleeding.

• Rectal: itching, pain, discharge, bleeding, painful bowel movements.

• Oral/Throat: sore throat, redness, oral sores or lesions.

• Systemic: fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, body aches, rash (palms/soles), nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice, hair loss or neurological issues (in late untreated cases).

Important note: Many STIs in men cause no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages. This makes routine screening and prompt medical attention critical, even if no obvious signs are present.

Source: Brito, J., 2020

7 STIs that affect male fertility

Sources: Cunningham K. A., et al., 2008; Loma Linda University, n.d.; Dabizzi, S., et al. 2024; Zhang, Z., Li, F., et al. 2023; Goulart, A. C. X., et al. 2020

Men with fertility problems caused by STIs usually experience these issues when the infection is left untreated or becomes persistent over time. Chronic or repeated inflammation can result in lasting damage. By contrast, early infections that are promptly detected and treated often resolve without causing any permanent effects. This is why routine testing, early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential in preventing fertility complications.

STI Treatment 

While several STIs can harm male fertility, treatment options vary; some are fully curable, while others can only be managed to reduce their long-term impact. Some treatment options include: 

• Antibiotics (Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis)

• Antivirals (HSV)

• Vaccination & wart removal (HPV)

• Antiretroviral therapy / ART (HIV/AIDS)

Some STIs that affect male fertility are curable, while others can only be managed. Bacterial and parasitic infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis can usually be cured with timely treatment, preventing lasting damage. Viral infections such as HPV, herpes, and HIV cannot be cured, but vaccines and antiviral therapies help control their impact on fertility and overall health.

Source: WHO, 2025 

STI Prevention 

• Use condoms consistently and correctly

• Limit number of sexual partners

• Get tested regularly and encourage partner testing

• Complete full STI treatments to avoid reinfection

• Get vaccinated (HPV, Hepatitis B)

• Avoid sharing needles or personal items that may transmit infections

• Maintain open communication with partners about sexual health

Source: CDC, 2024

Homed-IQ offers discreet and reliable at-home STI testing kits, enabling you to monitor your sexual health from the comfort of your own home. The process is simple: order a test online, collect your sample at home following the clear instructions provided and send it to a certified laboratory using the pre-paid envelope provided. The laboratory will analyse your sample, and you will receive the results securely online, often within a few days.

Summary

The fertility of men can be seriously affected by seven major sexually transmitted infections (STIs): chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, HIV and trichomoniasis. These infections can harm reproductive health in various ways, including blocking sperm ducts, reducing sperm motility, damaging DNA, and lowering hormone levels. While some, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, are curable if treated early, others, including HPV, herpes and HIV, can only be managed. Recognising these risks emphasises the importance of raising awareness, encouraging testing and promoting prevention to protect fertility and long-term health.