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Fertility Glossary

Reproductive tract infection (RTI)

An infection of the genital tract, which may or may not be sexually transmitted.

Infections

A reproductive tract infection (RTI) is an infection anywhere along the genital tract — vagina, cervix, uterus, tubes or, in men, the urethra and reproductive organs. RTIs include sexually transmitted infections but also infections that are not sexually transmitted, such as bacterial vaginosis or infections following childbirth, miscarriage, or a gynaecological procedure. Untreated or repeated RTIs are a recognised contributor to tubal damage and pelvic inflammatory disease in India, so identifying and treating RTIs is part of good preconception and fertility care.

Also known as: RTI

Related India guides

Sources

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • National AIDS Control Organisation, Government of India (naco.gov.in)

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

Related terms

Sexually transmitted infection (STI)

An infection passed between partners through sexual contact, some of which can affect fertility.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

An infection of the upper genital tract — uterus, tubes and ovaries — that can damage fertility.

Vaginal infections and fertility

Common vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis, and their link to fertility.

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