The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, can affect fertility in several ways, both directly and indirectly, in both males and females. It is critical that individuals and couples affected by HIV/AIDS are aware of the potential effects of the disease on reproduction.
Dr. Puneet Rana Arora, who is a renowned IVF doctor in Gurgaon, Haryana, is providing some important suggestions to comprehend about HIV/AIDS and fertility:
Direct Effect on Reproductive Organs:
HIV can directly cause inflammation and damage to the reproductive organs. This could interfere with the ovaries’ and testes’ ability to operate, making it harder for female to become pregnant.
Impact on Hormone Levels :
HIV infection can cause an imbalance in the body’s normal hormone production level. Hormones are essential for controlling sperm production and the menstrual cycle. Any variation in hormone levels may be a factor in problems with conception.
Opportunistic Infections :
Because of their compromised immune systems, people living with HIV are more vulnerable to infections. Fertility may be impacted by certain of these infections that affect the reproductive organs.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) and Fertility:
Although ART is crucial for controlling HIV and delaying its progression, many drugs may have unfavourable side effects that impact fertility. It’s crucial that people talk to their healthcare professionals about these possible consequences.
Diminished Sexual Function:
HIV-related physical and psychological issues may have an impact on one’s capacity for sexual activity. A decreased desire to conceive, erectile dysfunction, or other sexual problems may be contributing factors to infertility.
Transmission Risks:
During unprotected sexual contact, there is a chance that an individual may pass HIV to a partner. When attempting to conceive, extra measures may be required to avoid transmission if one partner has HIV and the other does not.
Impact on Pregnancy:
Due to the virus’s ability to impair maternal health and raise the possibility of problems, pregnant HIV-positive people may experience difficulties. Pregnant HIV patients must have the right medical attention in order to lower the risk of transmission from mother to child.
Psychological Impact:
Fertility problems may also be exacerbated by the psychological strain of living with HIV. Sexual function and levels of reproductive hormones can be impacted by stress and worry.
It is very important to get advice from best IVF experts who specialize in both HIV treatment and reproductive health in order to make well-informed decisions regarding family planning and fertility while reducing the risk of HIV transmission.
Adherence to antiretroviral medication, appropriate medical care, and lifestyle choices can all contribute to improving the chances of conception for people living with HIV.
