Viral STIs That Affects the Male Reproductive System

STIs are sexually transmitted infections with serious health consequences. They can be caused by different bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Some STIs that affects the male reproductive system include:

• Chlamydia: This infection often has no symptoms, but can cause inflammation of the epididymis; (the tube that carries sperm from the testicles) It can reduce sperm quality and motility, and increase the risk of infertility.
• Gonorrhea:This type of infection can also cause epididymitis, as well as urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra; (the tube that carries urine and semen out of the penis) this causes pain, discharge, and difficulty urinating.
• Syphilis: This infection has various symptoms, such as sores, rashes, fever, and swollen glands. If left untreated, syphilis can damage the nervous system, the heart, and other organs. Syphilis can also cause erectile dysfunction and increase the risk of HIV infection.
• Genital herpes: This is a viral infection that causes painful blisters and ulcers on the genitals and around the anus. Genital herpes can also cause inflammation of the prostate gland, which can affect sperm production and ejaculation.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): This is also a viral infection that can cause warts on the genitals and around the anus. Some types of HPV can also cause cancers of the penis, anus, and throat.
• Hepatitis B: This viral infection affects the liver and can cause jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain. Hepatitis B also causes inflammation of the testicles, which affects sperm production and quality. Hepatitis B can also increase the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis.
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): This is a viral infection that attacks the immune system and can cause AIDS, a condition that makes the body vulnerable to various infections and cancers. It affects the male reproductive system in various ways, such as reducing testosterone levels, causing erectile dysfunction, and impairing sperm quality and quantity.
• Trichomoniasis: This is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It can be spread through various forms of sexual contact, such as vaginal, oral or anal sex. Most people with trichomoniasis do not have any symptoms, but some may experience discharge, irritation, pain, or itching in the genital area.

Many times, these infections are asymptomatic, meaning there aren’t any symptoms. But, when symptoms are present, they may include:

• Discharge from the penis
• Swelling or discomfort of the genitals
• Lesions in the genital area

There are different ways to get tested for STIs, depending on the type of infection and your symptoms. Some of the common methods are:

• A urine test.
• A blood test.
• A swab test.
• A physical exam.

Getting tested for STIs is a simple and important way to protect your health and your partner's health. If you have any questions or concerns about STI testing, talk to a professional healthcare provider ASAP.