Mycoplasma genitalium Provokes Seminal Inflammation among Infertile Males

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Urology

Background:

• The impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) on male fertility remains a subject of debate.
• Urethritis-associated STIs are common causes of male infertility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of specific STIs (Chlamydia, Gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomoniasis) in infertile males.
• To evaluate the effects of these STIs on semen parameters and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 2000 infertile males and 248 controls (partners of pregnant women).
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for STI detection.
• Analyses included seminal interleukin-6 (IL-6), semen parameters, urine analysis, and blood tests for PSA and reproductive hormones.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium and Chlamydia was low in infertile males (1.1% and 1.2%, respectively).
• Mycoplasma genitalium positive individuals showed higher seminal neutrophils and IL-6.
• A trend towards reduced sperm count and motility was observed in STI-positive men, though not statistically significant.
• No association was found between STIs and PSA levels.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of urethritis-associated STIs is low among infertile males.
• Mycoplasma genitalium is associated with seminal inflammation.
• The subtle effects of STIs on semen parameters require further investigation.