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. 2024 Dec 3;28(4):604-610.
doi: 10.5935/1518-0557.20240048.

The impact of COVID-19 on the male reproductive system

Abzal Kystaubayev  1 , Askhan Abzalbekov  2 , Bakyt Ramazanova  1 , Vyacheslav Lokshin  3 , Muhammed Iskakov  4
Affiliations

The impact of COVID-19 on the male reproductive system

Abzal Kystaubayev et al. JBRA Assist Reprod. .

Abstract

Objective: The relevance of the study is determined by the deepening understanding of the global consequences of the coronavirus pandemic, which affect not only lung health but also a wide range of other body systems. In light of new data on the long-term effects of coronavirus infection, this study is highly significant. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of coronavirus infection on the male reproductive system and assess its potential influence on male fertility to refine the mechanisms of damage and provide recommendations for medical care.

Methods: The study utilised a combination of methods, including a meta-analysis of medical organisation databases, analysis of clinical cases, representative sample method, and quantitative survey method. These approaches allowed for a comprehensive and multifaceted view of the problem.

Results: The samples of sperm showed a noticeable decrease in progressive motility, sperm concentration, and volume, especially in patients with moderate and severe symptoms of COVID-19, whereas patients with mild symptoms only experienced a decrease in progressive motility and overall sperm motility. The survey identified symptoms of male reproductive system dysfunction after recovering from COVID-19. Predominant symptoms included decreased libido (15%), impotence (13%), and infections of the genital organs (12%). Most surveyed men lacked sufficient awareness of other aspects of male reproductive health, including infections, genetic defects, chronic diseases, and available medical services.

Conclusions: As a result of the study, it was concluded that coronavirus infection can have a negative impact on the male reproductive system. The practical value of this study lies in improving approaches to medical care for men who have recovered from COVID-19 and creating preventive programmes.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; ejaculation; fertility; sexual health; spermatogenesis.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Complications arising after COVID-19 disease in the male population of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Source: compiled by the authors.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Complications in the reproductive system of the male population of the Republic of Kazakhstan that arose after the COVID-19 disease. Source: compiled by the authors.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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