That ‘minor’ infection you keep ignoring could be affecting your chances of pregnancy: Doctor explains why repeated vaginal infections can delay fertility timelines

This is one of those topics people worry about quietly but don’t always talk about. A vaginal infection is actually pretty common. Things like yeast infections or bacterial imbalance happen, and most of the time, they’re treatable and don’t have any long-term impact on fertility.But, and this is where it matters, some infections aren’t just local. If left untreated, certain infections can travel upwards into the reproductive tract. That’s when things can get complicated. Infections like untreated bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. And that’s where fertility can take a hit.“For many women, a vaginal infection might seem like a minor inconvenience, a few uncomfortable days, a prescription, some relief, and then life resumes as usual. If it returns after a few months, you address it again. When these infections become frequent, it’s easy to assume this is simply your normal,” Dr Vineeta Kumari, Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, Ranchi told TOI Health.“I’ve always dealt with this.”“Medication takes care of it.”“It’s frustrating, but manageable.”However, recurrent infections can quietly impact your fertility over time.“Sperm are sensitive to changes in acidity and inflammation. When the vaginal environment is repeatedly disrupted, fewer sperm reach the cervix, and their movement can be affected. Persistent inflammation also changes cervical mucus, making it less supportive for sperm. This doesn’t make pregnancy impossible, but it can make the process slower and more challenging,” Dr. Vineeta explains. “Clinicians frequently observe this pattern. Many women seeking fertility assistance report a history of recurring infections. A study supports this connection: over half of women part of the study and pursuing fertility care had an active vaginal infection, compared to a much smaller percentage among women not experiencing fertility issues. While infections aren’t the sole cause of infertility, the correlation is significant.”A greater concern arises when infections are not fully treated or continue to recur, occasionally spreading upward to the uterus or fallopian tubes. This can lead to persistent inflammation or pelvic infections. Even minor scarring can interfere with the meeting or transport of eggs and sperm. Many women are unaware that difficulties with fertility years later may be linked to past, unresolved infections.Chronic inflammation can alter immune responses in the reproductive tract, complicating implantation and early pregnancy. Emerging research also indicates that a balanced vaginal microbiome improves the success of procedures like IVF. As a result, more fertility clinics now assess and optimise vaginal health before embryo transfers.There’s no need for alarm or excessive treatment, assures the doctor. “What matters is being attentive and proactive. If infections are recurring, don’t rely solely on self-treatment or dismiss the issue. Seek a proper diagnosis and complete the full course of prescribed medication. Treat your partner if indicated. Avoid unnecessary antibiotics, manage blood sugar, prioritise good sleep, reduce smoking, and maintain healthy hygiene habits – these steps all support restoring balance,” Dr. Vineeta adds. “If you’re considering pregnancy, addressing vaginal health early can make the journey smoother and prevent future complications. Fertility is about more than just the ovaries, it begins with creating a healthy environment for conception. Recognising and managing recurring issues now can help prevent more significant challenges later on,” the doctor concludes. Medical experts consulted This article includes expert inputs shared with TOI Health by:Dr Vineeta Kumari, Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, RanchiInputs were used to explain why women should not avoid minor infections and how it could lead to infertility.