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The Effect of COVID-19 on Male Sex Hormones: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Study
Xiucheng Lan1, Diang Chen1, Meijing Wang1
1Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China.
Journal of Epidemiology and Global Health
|February 26, 2024
Summary
COVID-19 significantly impacts male sex hormones, particularly decreasing testosterone and increasing prolactin and estradiol. These hormonal changes may affect male reproductive health, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been linked to various health complications.
- Emerging evidence suggests potential impacts on the male reproductive system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on male sex hormones and reproductive ability.
- To analyze the incidence and risk factors associated with these effects.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases up to April 2022.
- Eight cohort studies were included and analyzed using RevMan5.4.1 and Stata15.0.
- Inclusion and exclusion criteria were strictly applied by two independent investigators.
Main Results:
- COVID-19 was associated with a statistically significant decrease in testosterone (T) levels.
- Significant increases were observed in prolactin (PRL) and estradiol (E2) levels.
- While luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) showed non-significant changes, the T:LH ratio decreased significantly.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 can alter male sex hormone levels, with notable impacts on testosterone, potentially affecting male fertility.
- Further large-scale, high-quality prospective studies are needed to confirm long-term effects on male reproductive health.
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