Reproductive function in men conceived with in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Human Reproduction
• Andrology

Background:

• Assisted reproductive technology (ART), including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), has enabled conception for many individuals.
• Concerns exist regarding the long-term reproductive health of men conceived via ART.
• This study investigates the semen quality and reproductive hormone profiles of men conceived through ART compared to naturally conceived men.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare semen quality and reproductive hormone levels in men conceived via IVF/ICSI with those conceived without ART.
• To assess the prevalence of severe oligozoospermia and evaluate sperm parameters (concentration, count, motility, morphology) and hormone levels (testosterone, LH, FSH).

Main Methods:

• A cohort study was conducted involving men aged 18-25 years conceived with IVF/ICSI and a control group conceived without ART.
• Semen quality parameters including sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were assessed.
• Serum levels of reproductive hormones including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found in the prevalence of severe oligozoospermia between the IVF/ICSI group (9%) and the control group (5.3%).
• Men conceived via IVF/ICSI exhibited similar sperm concentration, total sperm count, and total motile count.
• While total and progressive sperm motility were lower in the IVF/ICSI group, normal morphology was higher. Hormone levels showed lower FSH and LH but higher testosterone in the IVF/ICSI group compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Men conceived with IVF/ICSI demonstrate comparable overall sperm output to naturally conceived men.
• Despite some differences in motility and morphology, the reproductive hormone profiles are also largely comparable.
• The findings are reassuring regarding the long-term reproductive health of men conceived through ART.