Can Chlamydia Cause Infertility in Women?

Dr. Randy Morris

Can Chlamydia Cause Infertility in Women?

Dr. Randy Morris

Having chlamydia can cause infertility in women, especially when infection goes untreated or is recurrent. In many cases, it is possible to treat the infertility effectively. Below, we will look at the link between chlamydia and infertility, as well as which treatment options are available.

Chlamydia, PID, and Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) which typically causes symptoms such as discomfort and abnormal discharge in women. When an infection goes untreated or undetected, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a condition in which the woman's entire reproductive tract becomes inflamed. Recurrent episodes of PID are most likely to cause scarring.PID can cause scarring and adhesions in the fallopian tubes. Each month, an egg travels through the fallopian tube from the ovary into the uterus, and fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube. If one fallopian tube is blocked, the woman will still be able to get pregnant as long as the other ovary is ovulating on a regular basis. However, if both tubes are blocked or if the other ovary does not ovulate, then the woman may be infertile.Chlamydia has another link with pregnancy and fertility: If the baby is exposed to the bacteria in the birth canal, blindness can occur. Worldwide, chlamdyia is the leading cause of preventable blindness. For this reason, babies receive an antibiotic eye ointment at birth, and pregnant women are routinely tested for STIs.

When to See a Doctor

You should see a fertility doctor about chlamydia and infertility if:

  • You have been trying to conceive for 12 months or longer without success
  • You have been trying to conceive for 6 months or longer and are over the age of 36
  • You have a history of PID
  • You have been told that you have blocked fallopian tubes

Treatment Options

Treatment for blocked fallopian tubes caused by chlamydia may take one of two forms. The doctor may attempt to clear the blocked fallopian tubes through a minimally invasive procedure, which will then allow the pregnancy to occur naturally or with the help of oral medication. IVF can also be performed, which circumvents the problem of the blocked fallopian tubes. The right choice for a particular situation depends on the nature of the woman's condition and on her preferences.

Top Doctor for Chlamydia and Infertility

If you have a history of chlamydia and are concerned about your fertility, Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to hear from you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.