Finally, we’re bringing you very public answers to some of your most private questions. When sexual and vaginal health concerns arise, OB/GYN and nationally known women’s health expert Dr. Jessica Shepherd wants to ensure you have the answers you need to feel at ease. As the founder of Her Viewpoint, an online women’s health forum, she uses this outlet to focus on addressing taboo topics in a comfortable setting. Prepare to take notes!

Q: Can an having a sexually transmitted disease or infection affect chances of pregnancy.

A: STDs and STIs are common and while some are treatable, others are not. Either way, it is very important that when engaging with a new sexual partner you are tested regularly and if something is abnormal you seek proper medical treatment as advised by your doctor. 

Part of the reason why it is necessary to make sure that you’re getting STD testing every year or every time you change a partner is becauseif you have had some sexually transmitted diseases they can affect your fertility. 

Chlamydia is one that actually can greatly affect the probability of getting pregnant if it goes untreated. If you have an infection with chlamydia and didn’t know about it, got it treated late, or never got it treated, it actually can cause the infection to get to your fallopian tubes. Once that occurs, the infection to your body can cause inflammation and sometimes can cause occlusion of your tubes. That means your tubes are not open anymore therefore the egg can’t pass through to the uterus, which is where it implants for pregnancy.

Have a question for Dr. Shepherd? Email us now.