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Circannual variation in human semen parameters
P Andolz1, M A Bielsa, A Andolz
1Laboratorio Investigaciones Seminológicas, Aribau, 280, 08006 Barcelona, Spain. pandolzp@imas.imim.es
International Journal of Andrology
|September 14, 2001
Summary
Semen quality, including sperm count and motility, shows significant monthly variations in Mediterranean climates, peaking in March and declining in September. Semen volume remained consistent throughout the year.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Andrology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Semen quality is crucial for male fertility.
- Environmental factors, including climate, may influence semen parameters.
- Previous studies suggest seasonal variations, but data from Mediterranean climates are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate significant monthly variations in key semen parameters.
- To analyze semen volume, sperm count, total sperm count, motile sperm count, and normal sperm count.
- To assess these variations in men residing in a Mediterranean climate.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 10,877 semen analysis results from 1970-2000.
- Statistical adjustments for year, patient age, and abstinence period using covariance analysis.
- Bonferroni post-hoc tests to assess monthly differences.
Main Results:
- Significant monthly variations observed in sperm count, total sperm count, motile sperm count, and normal sperm count.
- Peak semen quality parameters noted in March.
- A decrease in semen quality parameters observed in September.
- No significant monthly variations detected in semen volume.
Conclusions:
- Monthly changes in semen quality are confirmed in men from a Mediterranean climate.
- Sperm parameters exhibit seasonal patterns, with higher quality in spring and lower in autumn.
- These findings have implications for understanding male reproductive health and timing of fertility treatments.