Global Patterns and Trends in Female Infertility Linked to Sexually Transmitted Infections from 1990 to 2021
By
Tianyu Li
Siyu Long
Zhishan Ye
Zhichen Tang
Yaping Song
Min Su
Bin Zhou
Yanyun Wang
Lin Zhang
February 4, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Global Patterns and Trends in Female Infertility Linked to Sexually Transmitted Infections from 1990 to 2021
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Female Infertility Key Mechanisms Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and tubal factor infertility (TFI). Target Population Women aged 15-49 years. Care Setting Global, with emphasis on low- and middle-income countries.
Key Highlights
8%-12% of reproductive-aged individuals affected by infertility globally. STIs implicated in nearly 30% of female infertility cases. Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are primary pathogens associated with infertility. Significant barriers to accessing assisted reproductive technologies in low- and middle-income countries. Higher prevalence of depressive symptoms among infertile women compared to those with normal fertility. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Assess for STIs in women presenting with infertility. Utilize age-standardized prevalence rates for epidemiological evaluation. Management
Implement targeted interventions for STIs to reduce infertility rates. Enhance access to reproductive health services in low- and middle-income countries. Monitoring & Follow-up
Track trends in STIs-related infertility using Global Burden of Disease data. Evaluate the impact of interventions on infertility rates over time. Risks
Increased risk of infertility due to untreated STIs. Potential long-term health impacts from PID and TFI. Patient & Prescribing Data
Women aged 15-49 years with STIs-related infertility.
Focus on prevention and treatment of STIs to mitigate infertility risks.
Clinical Best Practices
Regular screening for STIs in reproductive-aged women. Education on safe sexual practices to prevent STIs. Collaboration with policymakers to improve access to reproductive health services. Related Resources & Content
