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Sleep and male (In)Fertility: A comprehensive overview
Catarina Cavalhas-Almeida1, Maria Inês Cristo2, Cláudia Cavadas1
1CNC-UC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
Sleep Medicine Reviews
|March 28, 2025
Summary
Sleep disturbances, particularly insomnia, may negatively impact male fertility by affecting sperm quality and hormone levels. This review highlights the crucial link between sleep health and reproductive function in men.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Sleep Medicine
- Andrology
Background:
- Male infertility affects millions globally, with up to 50% of cases linked to male factors.
- Despite advancements in Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART), male infertility and decreased sperm quality remain significant challenges.
- Growing evidence suggests a link between increasing infertility rates and the prevalence of sleep deprivation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential relationship between sleep disturbances, specifically insomnia, and male reproductive health.
- To synthesize current findings on how sleep impacts sperm quality, hormone levels, and reproductive function.
- To identify potential mechanisms linking sleep issues to male infertility.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies involving mammals (rodents and humans).
- Analysis of research focusing on sleep disturbances and male reproductive parameters.
- Synthesis of data on sperm quality, hormonal profiles, and overall reproductive function.
Main Results:
- Sleep is essential for normal reproductive function in males.
- Sleep deprivation and insomnia are associated with decreased sperm quality.
- Potential impacts on hormone levels and overall male reproductive health are indicated.
Conclusions:
- Sleep disturbances, especially insomnia, may contribute to male infertility.
- Understanding these links can inform clinical practice and future research in reproductive health.
- Further investigation into the mechanisms is warranted to develop targeted interventions.
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