Regional differences in semen qualities in the Baltic region

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Andrology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Male reproductive health varies across European countries.
• Previous studies indicate geographical and demographic differences in semen parameters and reproductive hormones.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare semen parameters and reproductive hormone levels in men from Estonia and Lithuania.
• To evaluate the current male reproductive health status in the Baltic States.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study conducted between 1997-1999.
• Investigated semen parameters, reproductive hormones (Inhibin B, testosterone, estradiol), and general health factors.
• Included men from the general population and soldiers in Lithuania and Estonia.

Main Results:

• Sperm concentration was 55 million/mL in Lithuanian men, 67 million/mL in Estonian general population men, and 82 million/mL in Estonian soldiers.
• Frequencies of morphologically normal spermatozoa were 6.2% (Lithuania), 7.7% (Estonia general population), and 9.6% (Estonia soldiers).
• Inhibin B levels were highest in Lithuanians (233 pg/mL), followed by Estonian general population (220 pg/mL) and soldiers (185 pg/mL). Testosterone and estradiol levels were lowest in soldiers.

Conclusions:

• Sperm counts in Estonian and Lithuanian men were higher than in several other European populations.
• Significant differences in semen quality and reproductive hormone levels exist even within the geographically close Baltic region.
• These findings highlight regional variations in male reproductive health indicators.