Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advanced Treatment of Seminal Duct Blockage Employing Endoscopy-Mediated Semen Channel Refluviation
Published on: December 8, 2023
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.
Abstract:
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) predilection for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors allows its entrance and replication; however, they are not biochemically required for viral fusion into the cell membrane. Testicular tissue has abundant ACE2 receptors, making it a target for the COVID-19 virus. Seminal fluid parameters are measures of male fertility. Changes in semen parameters have been caused by coronavirus disease and vaccines. Some attribute that effect to direct hematogenic spread to the testis; others propose that the excessive immunological response triggered by the infection causes a deleterious effect. An unsubstantiated claim questioned whether the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine could trigger an unintentional immunological response that would impair male fertility once receiving the vaccine. Extensive research confirms the transient nature of those changes that affect sperm motility and count with full recovery post-COVID-19 infection and after vaccination. The vaccine's safety was reaffirmed; however, there are currently no recommendations for screening sperm donors. Research is warranted to guarantee the safety of couples undergoing assisted reproduction.
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.
Related Concept Videos
Sperm Structure and Semen Composition
Sperm Transport
The maturation phase occurs in the epididymis, where sperm...
Male Sexual Response: Erection & Ejaculation
The blood filling the erectile tissues compresses the veins, which helps to prevent blood from leaving...
Spermatogenesis
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Infertility in Males

