Can COVID-19 affect male fertility?
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In the years since COVID-19 first came about, we've learned of many impacts that this virus can have on the body. Unfortunately, reproductive health, particularly sperm quality, can be affected by COVID. A study published in Fertility and Sterility found that men who contracted COVID-19 experienced a significant decrease in sperm concentration and motility. Another research article in Andrology reported that COVID-19 infection led to increased oxidative stress and inflammation in the testes, further compromising sperm health.
The good news is that sperm production and quality can recover following COVID. Typically, sperm tends to recover somewhere between 2 to 3 months after a fever (once germ cells are able to mature fully). Some research suggests a longer period to recover after COVID-19 - as long as 6 months. If you're worried about the impact of COVID on your sperm quality, checking a semen analysis can help you understand whether motility, morphology, or other parameters have been affected.
References:
- Garrido, N., et al. (2022). "Impact of COVID-19 on semen parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis." Fertility and Sterility, 117(3), 543-554.
- Liu, J., et al. (2023). "COVID-19 and its impact on testicular function and sperm quality: A review." Andrology, 11(1), 123-134.
*This post is for educational purposes only, and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have personal medical questions, consult with your personal physician*
Keywords: COVID and fertility, fever and fertility, fever and sperm, COVID and sperm