Investigating the effects of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 on sperm parameters and serum levels of male sexual hormones: Prospective observational study.

With the progress and prevalence of COVID-19, concerns have arisen regarding its impact on men's sexual health. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of examining the effects of COVID-19 on serum levels of sex hormones and semen. Sixty participants who met the study inclusion criteria enrolled in this study between January and April 2022. The individuals were divided into three groups (n = 20): healthy, COVID-19 positive, and recovered from COVID-19. Blood and semen samples were collected from the participants. Serum levels of sex hormones and semen were evaluated both macroscopically and microscopically. Our study results showed that the most common symptoms observed in the COVID-19 group were cough (100 %), fever (100 %), fatigue (95 %), and runny nose (90 %). Serum levels of sex hormones (testosterone, FSH, and prolactin) in the COVID-19 group were significantly decreased compared to the healthy group. Microscopic examination of semen revealed significant differences in vitality, progressive, and motile parameters among the three groups, with a decrease observed in the COVID-19 group. These results indicate that COVID-19 may have a negative impact on men's sexual health, potentially affecting hormone production and sperm quality. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on male fertility and to explore potential treatment options. © 2024 The Authors.

Citation

Yaser Mohammadi, Javad Ranjbaran, Morteza Mamashli, Hadi Zare Marzuni, Ali Dashtgard, Seyed Mostafa Mohsenizadeh. Investigating the effects of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 on sperm parameters and serum levels of male sexual hormones: Prospective observational study. New microbes and new infections. 2024 Aug-Oct;60-61:101432

PMID: 38800713

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