Although cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis B, C, D viridae (HBV, HCV, HDV), human T-lymphotrophic virus (HTLV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are not associated with genital tract manifestations, they may be considered as sexually transmitted diseases. These agents pose a particular risk in assisted reproductive technologies because of their potential for transmission to staff, to other patients, and to children born as a result of treatment, particularly via cycles that involve the use of donor gametes. They are responsible for a wide spectrum of clinical illnesses involving multiple organ systems, and all have been recognized to be more prevalent in populations attending STD clinics than in the general population.

The infectious agents of CMV, HIV, HTLV, HBV, HCV and HDV can persist in the blood unknown to the carrier, who may be asymptomatic; they can also be transmitted via other body fluids, including:

• cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

• pleural fluid

• breast milk

• amniotic fluid

• peritoneal fluid

• pericardial fluid

• synovial fluid

• vaginal secretions

• semen

• any other fluid containing visible blood, as well as all unfixed tissues, organs, and parts of bodies.

Blood-borne virus (BBV) transmission can occur via:

• sexual intercourse

• sharing needles/syringes

• re-use of unsterilized or inadequately sterilized injection equipment

• skin puncture by blood-contaminated sharp objects such as needles, instruments or glass

• childbirth – before or during birth, or through breast feeding