Can having mumps during childhood affect fertility?

Today, many couples struggle with infertility, spending considerable time and energy seeking medical care—leaving them physically and emotionally exhausted. During examinations and treatment, doctors often ask whether they had mumps during childhood. Mumps is a contagious disease commonly associated with symptoms such as fever and painful swelling of the salivary glands. So, does having mumps in childhood affect fertility?

Does childhood mumps affect fertility?

Having mumps during childhood generally does not affect fertility. Bacterial parotitis (a non-viral infection of the salivary glands) does not impair future reproductive function. However, viral mumps—the classic, contagious form—can potentially impact reproductive health. Approximately 20% of boys with mumps develop testicular swelling and pain, known as mumps orchitis. If left untreated, this inflammation may damage testicular tissue, impair sperm production, and even lead to azoospermia (absence of sperm in the ejaculate), thereby compromising future fertility and potentially causing infertility.

In daily life, maintain good hand hygiene—wash hands before meals—and avoid consuming spoiled or expired food to prevent bacterial or parasitic infections entering the mouth. Encourage children to drink plenty of boiled water; adding a small amount of sugar can improve palatability. Limit intake of carbonated beverages like cola, which may irritate or harm children’s gastrointestinal tracts. Eat regularly, in moderate portions, and avoid excessive consumption of cold, fried, or grilled foods. Also avoid spicy or hard-to-digest foods to prevent gastrointestinal irritation or injury.

In everyday life, maintain a disciplined diet—avoid spicy and irritating foods, overeating, or irregular eating habits—and ensure adequate sleep. We hope this information is helpful to you.