gonorrhea

Could your everyday kiss be a hidden risk to your fertility? It might sound shocking, but recent research suggests that gonorrhea, a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), could be spreading silently through kissing. For individuals and couples trying to conceive (TTC), understanding this new information is more important than ever.

A fascinating article published on Psychology Today titled Is Kissing Spreading Gonorrhea? highlights this under-recognized transmission route. Traditionally, gonorrhea has been associated mainly with genital contact, but new findings reveal that the bacteria can colonize the throat and be passed on simply through kissing. This revelation raises urgent questions for people focused on reproductive health.

Why Should TTC Couples Care?

Gonorrhea can sometimes be silent, showing no clear symptoms, especially when harbored in the throat. Yet, untreated infections can cause serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women and potential impact on male fertility. Even if you feel healthy, kissing could be a vector for spreading an infection that affects your reproductive organs down the line.

So, how do you protect yourself while maintaining intimacy and connection?

The New Frontier: Throat Swabs and STI Testing

The article urges individuals to consider getting their throats swabbed when testing for gonorrhea, a step often overlooked in routine STI screenings. Many clinics only test genital samples, missing a key reservoir of infection.

If you’re navigating TTC at home, this added awareness can be a game-changer. Knowledge is power when it comes to fertility, and taking the initiative to test more thoroughly can help prevent unexpected setbacks caused by undiagnosed infections.

Fertility and At-Home Conception: What To Know

For those using at-home insemination methods, like the kits offered by MakeAMom, maintaining optimal reproductive health is critical. MakeAMom specializes in at-home insemination kits—like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker—that support conception outside the clinic, offering affordability and convenience.

But even with advanced tools, the unseen threats from infections like gonorrhea can undermine your efforts. STI screening should be part of a comprehensive plan to safeguard fertility.

Practical Tips to Stay Safe and Fertility Ready

• Get Tested Regularly: Include throat swabs along with genital tests to catch hidden infections.
• Open Communication: Talk with your partner about sexual health honestly and agree on testing schedules.
• Practice Safe Intimacy: Use protection when risk factors are present and avoid intimate contact if either partner feels unwell.
• Follow Treatment Protocols: If diagnosed with an infection, complete all prescribed treatments before trying to conceive.
• Maintain Hygiene: When using at-home insemination kits, ensure all equipment is sterilized and handled carefully to prevent contamination.

Why Awareness Matters More Than Ever

With a reported average success rate of 67% among users, MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits are empowering many hopeful parents. But nothing replaces a healthy foundation. The newly identified potential for gonorrhea transmission through kissing reminds us how complex reproductive health is and how vital it is to be vigilant about all factors.

Ready to Take Control of Your Fertility Journey?

If you’re exploring at-home conception, consider integrating comprehensive sexual health practices into your routine. The fusion of modern technology—like MakeAMom’s reusable, discreet kits—with informed health decisions can open the path to parenthood more safely and confidently.

Don’t let hidden infections stall your dream of becoming a parent. By staying informed and proactive, you're not only protecting your fertility but also strengthening the health of your future family.

What’s your take on this surprising new research? Have you or someone you know considered throat swabs as part of STI testing? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments—we’re here to support each other on this journey.

For more detailed information on at-home insemination and reproductive wellness, you can explore MakeAMom’s comprehensive resources, where innovation meets care in fertility solutions.

References: - Rothenberg, R. et al. (2025). Is Kissing Spreading Gonorrhea? Psychology Today. Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fevered-mind/202506/is-kissing-spreading-gonorrhea

Have you heard about the recent alarming case of a woman who died in Alaska from a rare complication of gonorrhea? If not, this is a wake-up call—not just for those in Alaska but for everyone navigating their reproductive health journey.

Earlier this spring, news broke about a woman in her 50s who tragically passed away due to a severe complication stemming from gonorrhea, a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI). This case has sparked fears about a potentially new, more dangerous strain of the STI, coinciding with an unsettling rise in similar infections in Alaska. You can read the full report here.

So why does this matter for anyone trying to conceive or focused on fertility?

First, STIs like gonorrhea don't just impact overall health—they can dramatically affect fertility for both women and men. Untreated infections may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, leading to scarring of the fallopian tubes and increased risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy. In men, it can cause epididymitis, inflammation that could affect sperm quality and reproductive capacity.

The possibility of new, antibiotic-resistant strains emerging means traditional treatments might not work as effectively, increasing the risk of long-term complications. This adds a new layer of urgency for sexual health awareness in the fertility community.

Let’s break down what this means practically for you:

• Stay vigilant with sexual health screenings. Regular testing is crucial—even if you feel fine. Many STIs can be silent but damaging.
• Communicate openly with your partner(s). Honest conversations about sexual history and health build trust and safety.
• Don’t ignore symptoms. Unusual discharge, pain, or discomfort should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider immediately.
• Consider safer conception methods. If you or your partner are at risk or have a history of STIs, exploring at-home insemination kits can be a safer alternative to natural intercourse during conception attempts.

Speaking of safer conception methods, did you know that companies like MakeAMom offer innovative at-home insemination kits designed to help individuals and couples conceive discreetly and safely? Their range includes specialized kits tailored for different sperm qualities and user sensitivities, offering a cost-effective, private option for people navigating complex fertility or health scenarios.

Why is this so game-changing?

Because it empowers you with control over your fertility journey, reducing risks associated with sexual transmission of infections during attempts to conceive naturally. Plus, MakeAMom’s discreet packaging respects your privacy in what can be a very personal process.

But let’s bring it back to the bigger picture:

The recent tragic case from Alaska is a stark reminder that sexual health is inextricably linked to fertility health. Emerging STI strains that are harder to treat can have ripple effects across communities trying to start or grow families.

So, what can YOU do?

• Educate yourself and your community about the importance of regular STI screenings.
• Advocate for accessible sexual and reproductive health services.
• Consider integrating safer at-home fertility options when appropriate.
• Share your experiences and support others in forums or groups dedicated to fertility and sexual wellness.

In closing: this isn’t just a news story—it’s a call to action. Whether you’re just starting your fertility journey or have been navigating it for a while, staying informed and proactive about your sexual health can make all the difference.

Have you or someone you know faced challenges related to STIs and fertility? How have you navigated them? Let’s start a conversation below.

Remember, your health and your journey matter—every step of the way.