News | Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Male Fertility: Declines in Sperm Quality and Hormone Levels
A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may have long-term negative effects on male fertility, particularly semen quality and sex hormone levels. Through a systematic review and data analysis, the study examined how COVID-19 reduces sperm count, motility, and concentration and affects key hormones such as testosterone.
The detailed analysis found significant declines in semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, and viability after infection. Although some treatments improved certain fertility measures, the effects were limited and did not fully restore pre-infection levels.
How Does COVID-19 Affect Fertility?
SARS-CoV-2 enters cells by binding to **angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2)** receptors, which are widely distributed in organs including the lungs, kidneys, heart, and testes. COVID-19 may therefore affect not only the respiratory system but also other important organs, including the male reproductive system.
Because ACE-2 receptors are present in the testes, infection may cause testicular inflammation and reduce semen quality. This may involve lower sperm count, concentration, and motility, as well as changes in sperm morphology. COVID-19 may also disrupt male hormones, including lower testosterone and higher prolactin and estrogen levels, potentially further impairing fertility.
Can Treatment Restore Fertility?
Although COVID-19 treatment improved some fertility measures, it was insufficient to fully restore pre-infection fertility. Key measures such as sperm concentration and motility remained below normal pre-infection levels after treatment. In men assessed before and after infection, overall sperm morphology did not change significantly, though some individual deterioration was observed.
Long-Term Effects and Future Outlook
Although the study identified negative effects of COVID-19 on male fertility, further research is needed on its long-term impact. Future studies will focus on the virus's lasting effects on the male reproductive system and potential treatments. Current findings suggest that men who have had COVID-19 should monitor their reproductive health and seek medical evaluation if related symptoms occur.
News | Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Male Fertility: Reduced Sperm Quality and Hormone Levels
News | Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Male Fertility: Declines in Sperm Quality and Hormone Levels
A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may have long-term negative effects on male fertility, particularly semen quality and sex hormone levels. Through a systematic review and data analysis, the study examined how COVID-19 reduces sperm count, motility, and concentration and affects key hormones such as testosterone.
The detailed analysis found significant declines in semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, and viability after infection. Although some treatments improved certain fertility measures, the effects were limited and did not fully restore pre-infection levels.
How Does COVID-19 Affect Fertility?
SARS-CoV-2 enters cells by binding to **angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2)** receptors, which are widely distributed in organs including the lungs, kidneys, heart, and testes. COVID-19 may therefore affect not only the respiratory system but also other important organs, including the male reproductive system.
Because ACE-2 receptors are present in the testes, infection may cause testicular inflammation and reduce semen quality. This may involve lower sperm count, concentration, and motility, as well as changes in sperm morphology. COVID-19 may also disrupt male hormones, including lower testosterone and higher prolactin and estrogen levels, potentially further impairing fertility.
Can Treatment Restore Fertility?
Although COVID-19 treatment improved some fertility measures, it was insufficient to fully restore pre-infection fertility. Key measures such as sperm concentration and motility remained below normal pre-infection levels after treatment. In men assessed before and after infection, overall sperm morphology did not change significantly, though some individual deterioration was observed.
Long-Term Effects and Future Outlook
Although the study identified negative effects of COVID-19 on male fertility, further research is needed on its long-term impact. Future studies will focus on the virus's lasting effects on the male reproductive system and potential treatments. Current findings suggest that men who have had COVID-19 should monitor their reproductive health and seek medical evaluation if related symptoms occur.
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