Some infections can interfere with sperm production or sperm health or can cause scarring that blocks the passage of sperm. These include inflammation of the epididymis (epididymitis) or testicles (orchitis) and some sexually transmitted infections like- gonorrhea, syphilis, Chlamydia, Hepatitis-B and HCV. Although some infections can result in permanent testicular damage, most often sperm can still be retrieved.