Seminal fluid changes in the COVID-19 era: During infection and Post-vaccination

Wassan Nori1, Dina Akeel Salman1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq.

Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinical Medicine
|April 15, 2024
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 virus can affect male fertility markers, but research shows sperm count and motility recover after infection or vaccination. Vaccine safety is reaffirmed, though more research is needed for assisted reproduction.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Immunology
  • Virology
  • Andrology

Background:

  • Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) utilizes angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors for cellular entry.
  • Testicular tissue's abundance of ACE2 receptors makes it a potential target for SARS-CoV-2.
  • Male fertility is assessed through seminal fluid parameters, which may be impacted by viral infections and vaccines.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of COVID-19 and its vaccines on male fertility parameters.
  • To address unsubstantiated claims regarding vaccine-induced immunological responses affecting male fertility.
  • To evaluate the transient nature of semen parameter changes and recovery post-infection and vaccination.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing research on COVID-19's effects on testicular tissue and semen parameters.
  • Analysis of studies examining changes in sperm count and motility following infection and vaccination.
  • Assessment of vaccine safety data concerning male reproductive health.

Main Results:

  • COVID-19 infection and vaccination can cause transient changes in sperm motility and count.
  • Full recovery of semen parameters is observed post-COVID-19 infection and after vaccination.
  • Extensive research reaffirms the safety of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines regarding male fertility.

Conclusions:

  • The impact of COVID-19 on male fertility markers is temporary, with complete recovery expected.
  • Current evidence supports the safety of COVID-19 vaccines concerning male reproductive health.
  • Further research is recommended to ensure the safety of assisted reproduction for couples.

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