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STD/HIV association: effects on semen characteristics

E Umapathy1

  • 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Science, University of Transkei, Umtata, South Africa. umapathye@hotmail.com

Archives of Andrology
|August 10, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are linked to impaired sperm motility in men with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Leucocytospermia, or white blood cells in semen, may indicate HIV infection.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Andrology

Background:

  • Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a global health concern.
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) significantly impacts male reproductive health.
  • The interplay between STDs, HIV, and semen quality requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between STDs and HIV in men.
  • To determine the effects of STDs and HIV on semen characteristics and seminal leucocytes.
  • To explore leucocytospermia as a potential indicator of HIV infection.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study of 83 fertile/infertile men.
  • Analysis of HIV antibodies in semen, andrological parameters, and seminal leucocytes.
  • Comparison of semen characteristics between HIV-positive (HIV+) and HIV-negative (HIV-) men with and without STD history.

Main Results:

  • HIV+ men exhibited significantly lower sperm motility (p < 0.02).
  • Leucocytospermia was prevalent in HIV+ men, particularly those with a history of STD (p < 0.001), and even in HIV+ men without STD history (p < 0.05).
  • Non-ulcerative STDs were identified as a risk factor for HIV infection.

Conclusions:

  • Impaired sperm motility in HIV+ men may be linked to activated seminal leucocytes and oxidative stress.
  • Leucocytospermia appears to be a reliable indicator of HIV+ status.
  • Understanding the relationship between STDs and HIV is crucial for male reproductive health management.

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