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Possible Male Reproduction Complications after Coronavirus Pandemic

Maryam Hezavehei1, Bahare Shokoohian2, Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani3

  • 1Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.

Cell Journal
|August 29, 2021
PubMed

Insights

COVID-19 may affect male fertility. SARS-CoV-2 infection might target male reproductive tissues, potentially impacting semen parameters and sex hormones like testosterone. Further research is needed to clarify the risks.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Endocrinology
  • Virology
  • Urology

Background:

  • Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe respiratory illness with systemic effects.
  • The SARS-CoV-2 virus utilizes angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as its receptor, which is highly expressed in male gonads.
  • Male reproductive tissues are a potential target for SARS-CoV-2, raising concerns about male fertility and reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential impacts of COVID-19 on male gonads, sex hormones, and semen quality.
  • To synthesize current evidence regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection and male reproductive health.
  • To suggest preventive strategies against potential COVID-19-related male reproductive dysfunction.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature search conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar.
  • Included articles published up to April 15, 2021.
  • Keywords: male fertility, male reproductive health, semen parameters, sex hormones, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19.

Main Results:

  • Limited validated evidence exists on adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive system.
  • Some studies report viral RNA in semen and alterations in semen parameters.
  • Reported hormonal changes include decreased testosterone and increased luteinizing hormone levels in some patients.

Conclusions:

  • Male gonads may be vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • The precise impact of COVID-19 on male reproduction remains unclear.
  • Further investigation is warranted to fully understand and address the risks to male fertility and reproductive health.
Keywords:
COVID-19FertilityMale ReproductionSARS-CoV-2Semen

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