According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), almost 1 million people worldwide contract STDs. In India, around 6% of the adult population is infected with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) every year.
According to recent data from the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), the most common STDs in India include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS. Recently, experts have pointed out the increase in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the country.
In addition to this, experts have also stressed the link between this increase in STDs and rising infertility in the country.
Understanding STDs and their prevalence in India
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the source of sexually transmitted illnesses (STDs). They are mostly spread through sexual contact. Viruses, bacteria, or parasites are the causes of STIs. A sexually transmitted infection can spread through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, or the vagina. STDs are a major health concern in the country, with infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV being the most common. According to the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), millions of new STD cases are reported annually in India, highlighting the need to create more awareness around the same.
Link Between STDs and Infertility
Both male and female reproductive health can be compromised by untreated STDs, leading to infertility. In addition to causing issues with reproduction, STDs can also make it difficult to conceive. If an underlying STD is found and treated early on, this issue can be dealt with. Consequently, the importance of STD screening has increased to preserve reproductive health.
STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea are notorious for causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. PID is a severe infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It can lead to scarring and blockages in the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from travelling to the uterus for fertilization. STDs can also have a profound impact on male fertility. Infections can lead to epididymitis, an inflammation of the ducts that carry sperm. This can cause blockages or impair sperm quality, leading to reduced fertility. Additionally, STDs can cause inflammation and damage to the prostate and testicles, further affecting sperm production and function.
Overall, the inflammatory response triggered by STDs in both women and men can result in structural changes, scarring, and impaired reproductive function, ultimately affecting fertility.
Factors contributing to the rise in STDs in India
