Cystic
Fibrosis and the Reproductive SystemHow
does CF affect the reproductive system?
Children with CF have an abnormality in the
function of a cell protein called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator
(CFTR). CFTR
controls the flow of water and certain salts in and out of the
body's cells. As the movement of salt and water in and out of cells
is altered, mucus
becomes thickened.
In the reproductive system, the thickened
secretions can cause obstructions and affect the development and
function of the sexual organs.
About 98 percent of males with CF have obstruction of the sperm
canal and are sterile. Women also have an increase in
thick cervical mucus that may lead to a decrease in fertility.
Symptoms
that may be present due to the effects of CF on the reproductive
system include the following:
-
delayed
sexual development
-
absence
or stopping of menstruation
-
irregular
menstrual periods
-
inflammation
of the cervix
-
infertility
or sterility
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