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Seasonal variation and age-related changes in human semen parameters
Zuying Chen1, Thomas Toth, Linda Godfrey-Bailey
1Vincent Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Service, Andrology Laboratory and In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Journal of Andrology
|March 14, 2003
Summary
Human semen quality declines with age, showing reduced volume, concentration, motility, and morphology. Sperm concentration and normal morphology are highest in winter, indicating seasonal variations in male fertility parameters.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Andrology
- Human Fertility Studies
Background:
- Existing literature on age and seasonal effects on semen quality shows inconsistent findings.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate interpretation of semen analysis results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related and seasonal variations in human semen parameters.
- To identify specific semen metrics affected by aging and season.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 551 semen analysis records from 1989 to 2000.
- Data collected from the Vincent Memorial Andrology Laboratory at Massachusetts General Hospital.
- Statistical analysis to determine significance of age and seasonal effects on semen parameters.
Main Results:
- Semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, total motile sperm, and morphology significantly decreased with increasing age.
- Sperm concentration was significantly higher in winter compared to fall.
- Normal sperm morphology was significantly higher in winter compared to summer and spring, while head defects were higher in fall and summer.
Conclusions:
- Human semen quality is significantly impacted by both age and season.
- Aging is associated with a decline in multiple semen parameters.
- Winter is associated with improved sperm concentration and morphology compared to other seasons.