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Ishay A, Oleinikov K, Chertok Shacham E. SARS-CoV-2-Vaccine-Related Endocrine Disorders: An Updated Narrative Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:750. [PMID: 39066388 PMCID: PMC11281608 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12070750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the rapid and worldwide development and investigation of multiple vaccines. While most side effects of these vaccines are mild and transient, potentially severe adverse events may occur and involve the endocrine system. This narrative review aimed to explore the current knowledge on potential adverse endocrine effects following COVID-19 vaccination, with thyroid disorders being the most common. Data about pituitary, adrenal, diabetes, and gonadal events are also reviewed. This review also provides a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of endocrine disorders associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase database (Elsevier), and Google Scholar searches were performed. Case reports, case series, original studies, and reviews written in English and published online up to 31 August 2023 were selected and reviewed. Data on endocrine adverse events of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are accumulating. However, their causal relationship with COVID-19 vaccines is not strong enough to make a definite conclusion, and further studies are needed to clarify the pathogenesis mechanisms of the endocrine disorders linked to COVID-19 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avraham Ishay
- Endocrinology Unit, HaEmek Medical Center, Yitzhak Rabin Av. 21, Afula 18101, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Kira Oleinikov
- Endocrinology Unit, HaEmek Medical Center, Yitzhak Rabin Av. 21, Afula 18101, Israel
| | - Elena Chertok Shacham
- Endocrinology Unit, HaEmek Medical Center, Yitzhak Rabin Av. 21, Afula 18101, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
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Shin SY, Kim JH, Kim JH, Kwon H, Park C, Choi DH, Cho SM, Shin JE. Effect of COVID-19 infection and vaccination on SARS-CoV-2 antibody titer change following ovarian stimulation: Prospective analysis of IVF outcomes. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37349. [PMID: 38489720 PMCID: PMC10939662 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2) has affected various medical fields worldwide. However, relatively few studies have examined the impact of COVID-19 infection and vaccination on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes and changes in SARS-CoV-2 antibody concentration in follicular fluid (FF). A total of 45 women were prospectively recruited and assigned to 3 groups: uninfected and non-vaccinated control group (Control group), infected group (COVID + group), and vaccinated group (Vaccination group). Serum and follicular fluid (FF) estradiol, progesterone, and SARS-CoV-2 antibody concentrations were measured. There were no statistical differences in the total number of retrieved oocytes (P = .291), mature oocytes (P = .416), and good-quality embryos (P = .694) among the 3 groups. In the vaccination group, BNT162b2 exhibited a significantly lower trigger-day serum estradiol/MII oocyte level (110.6 pg/mL) than other vaccines (289.5 pg/mL) (P = .006). No statistical differences in serum (P = .687) and FF (P = .108) SARS-CoV-2 antibody changes were noted among the 3 groups. Only FF antibody changes exhibited statistically significant differences between the BNT162b2 and other vaccine subgroups (P = .047). COVID-19 infection and vaccination do not affect IVF outcomes. However, the effect of BNT162b2 on steroidogenesis of the mature oocyte and FF SARS-CoV2 antibody titer should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Yeon Shin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jee Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Ji Hyang Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Hwang Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Chan Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Dong Hee Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Sun-mi Cho
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Ji Eun Shin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center Bundang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
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Dong Y, Ba Z, Qin Y, Ma J, Li Y, Zhang Y, Yang A, Chen F. Comprehensive evaluation of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on sperm parameters and sex hormones. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1321406. [PMID: 38469318 PMCID: PMC10925671 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1321406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine has made significant contributions to fighting the epidemic in the past three years. However, the rapid development and application raised concerns about its safety in reproductive health, especially after several studies had observed a decrease in semen parameters following two doses of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Thus, it is necessary to comprehensively evaluate the effect of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine on male fertility. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Center for Reproductive Medicine of the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University between July 2021 and March 2023. A total of 409 men with different vaccination status and no history of SARS-CoV-2 infection were included in this study. Their sex hormone levels and semen parameters were evaluated and compared separately. Results The levels of FSH and PRL in one-dose vaccinated group were higher than other groups, while there were no significant changes in other sex hormone levels between the control and inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccinated groups. Most semen parameters such as volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, progressive motility and normal forms were similar before and after vaccination with any single dose or combination of doses (all P > 0.05). Nevertheless, the total motility was significantly decreased after receiving the 1 + 2 doses of vaccine compared to before vaccination (46.90 ± 2.40% vs. 58.62 ± 2.51%; P = 0.001). Fortunately, this parameter was still within the normal range. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that any single dose or different combined doses of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was not detrimental to male fertility. This information could reassure men who want to conceive after vaccination and be incorporated into future fertility recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehao Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Zaihua Ba
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yining Qin
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Jiao Ma
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yuqi Li
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yingze Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Aijun Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
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Yang T, Tang D, Zhan Y, Seyler BC, Li F, Zhou B. SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and semen quality: a study based on sperm donor candidate data in southwest China. Transl Androl Urol 2024; 13:80-90. [PMID: 38404555 PMCID: PMC10891393 DOI: 10.21037/tau-23-395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been a global health crisis and continues to pose risk to population health at the present. Vaccination against this disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has become a public health priority worldwide. Yet, limited information is available on the potential impact of such vaccines on human fertility. Methods To examine the relationship between COVID-19 vaccination and male fertility, we conducted an observational study on sperm donor candidates in China who received Chinese COVID-19 vaccines between January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021. Results A total of 2,955 semen samples from 564 individuals were assessed along with vaccination information. Statistical analyses were conducted on both the entire study population and the subgroup of individuals who provided repeated semen samples before and after vaccination. While motility related parameters [progressive rate, curvilinear velocity (VCL), average path velocity (VAP), straight-line velocity (VSL), wobble (WOB), straightness (STR), linearity (LIN), amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), beat-cross frequency (BCF)] exhibited statistically significant difference before and after vaccination based on Welch two-sample test, mixed effects regression results based on repeated measures from the same individuals indicated that vaccination was not statistically associated with sperm quality parameters except for VCL, VAP, and VSL. Individual variability was the key determinant of sperm quality variance, with contribution ranging from 19% to 82%. Conclusions Findings from our study could help to enhance current understanding of male reproductive health in the context of the global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Yang
- Department of Andrology/Human Sperm Bank of Sichuan Province, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Die Tang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Zhan
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Barnabas C. Seyler
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fuping Li
- Department of Andrology/Human Sperm Bank of Sichuan Province, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Li G, Zhang R, Song B, Wang C, Shen Q, He X, Cao Y. Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines on Sperm Quality: Systematic Review. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e48511. [PMID: 37976132 DOI: 10.2196/48511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has triggered a global public health crisis of unprecedented proportions. SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is a highly effective strategy for preventing infections and severe COVID-19 outcomes. Although several studies have concluded that COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to affect fertility, concerns have arisen regarding adverse events, including the potential impact on fertility; these concerns are plagued by limited and inconsistent evidence. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide a recent assessment of the literature on the impact of COVID-19 vaccines on male sperm quality. The possible impact of COVID-19 vaccines on fertility potential was also examined to draw a clearer picture and to evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on male reproductive health. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched from their inception to October 2023. Eligible studies included articles reporting SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and human semen quality and fertility, as well as the impact of vaccination on assisted reproductive technology treatment outcomes. The quality of cohort studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and the quality of cross-sectional studies was assessed using the quality evaluation criteria recommended by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The systematic review followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. RESULTS The initial literature search yielded 4691 records by searching 5 peer-reviewed databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane). Finally, 24 relevant studies were selected for our study. There were evident research inequalities at the regional level, with the United States and Western European countries contributing 38% (9/24) of the studies, Middle Eastern countries contributing 38% (9/24), China accounting for 21% (5/24), and Africa and South America accounting for none. Nonetheless, the overall quality of the included studies was generally good. Our results demonstrated that serious side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine are extremely rare, and men experience few problems with sperm parameters or reproductive potential after vaccination. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the studies published so far, the COVID-19 vaccine is safe for male reproductive health. Obviously, vaccination is a wise option rather than experience serious adverse symptoms of viral infections. These instances of evidence may help reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination coverage, particularly among reproductive-age couples. As new controlled trials and prospective cohort studies with larger sample sizes emerge, the possibility of a negative effect of the COVID-19 vaccine on sperm quality must be further clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanjian Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Rongqiu Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Jinyang Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- The Second People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, China
| | - Bing Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Qunshan Shen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Human Sperm Bank, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
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Wang C, Wang M, Li G, Song B, Xing Q, Cao Y. Effects of COVID-19 vaccination on human fertility: a post-pandemic literature review. Ann Med 2023; 55:2261964. [PMID: 37756386 PMCID: PMC10538453 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2261964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although vaccination with the Coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine is important and effective in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the public expressed concerns regarding the adverse effects of vaccine on fertility. Some reviews have focused on it, they have been unable to collect sufficient research data because of the earlier publication period. As relevant evidence has gradually increased, we reviewed these studies from the perspectives of males, females with or without pregnancy, and different vaccine types. The results suggest that although males may experience fluctuations in semen parameters within their physiological ranges after receiving the vaccine, it has not yet reached a level of influence on the partner's pregnancy probability. As to female without pregnancy, it is believed that vaccination will not affect fertility; however, more research is needed to explore the short-term impact. Vaccination during any trimester is considered safe in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of General Office, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Guanjian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bing Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qiong Xing
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Huang J, Guan T, Tian L, Xia L, Xu D, Wu X, Huang L, Chen M, Fang Z, Xiong C, Nie L, Wang S, Li Z, Zhao Y, Wu Q. Impact of inactivated COVID-19 vaccination on female ovarian reserve: a propensity score-matched retrospective cohort study. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198051. [PMID: 37638010 PMCID: PMC10451080 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore the impact of inactivated COVID-19 vaccination on ovarian reserve as assessed by serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration. Methods A total of 3160 women were included in this single-center retrospective cohort study between June 2021 and October 2022. Vaccination information were collected from official immunization records available in personal mobile apps. Serum AMH was qualified by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay and compared with previous measurement data within three years. Women were categorized to the vaccinated group if they received two doses of inactivated COVID-19 vaccines (Sinopharm or Sinovac) between AMH tests (n = 488), and to the control group if not vaccinated (n = 2672). Propensity score matching and multivariate linear regression were performed to control for potential confounders. The main outcome measures were the numeric AMH change and percentage AMH change between the two tests. Results There were 474 women left in each group after matching all baseline characteristics. The mean interval from the first to second AMH measurement was 508.0 ± 250.2 and 507.5 ± 253.6 days for vaccinated and unvaccinated women, respectively (P = 0.680). Both groups had a significant AMH decrease in the second test compared with the first test (P = 0.001). However, the second AMH level remained comparable between groups (3.26 ± 2.80 vs. 3.24 ± 2.61 ng/mL, P = 0.757). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in numerical (-0.14 ± 1.32 vs. -0.20 ± 1.56 ng/mL, P = 0.945) and percentage (2.33 ± 58.65 vs. 0.35 ± 48.42%, P = 0.777) AMH changes. The results were consistent in sub-analyses for women aged <35 and ≥35 years. There were also no significant differences when vaccinated women were divided according to the time interval after vaccination: ≤30, 31-60, 61-90, and ≥91 days. Conclusion Our study provides the first evidence that inactivated COVID-19 vaccination has no measurable detrimental effect on ovarian reserve, regardless of female age and vaccination interval. This reassuring finding adds to the safety evidence of COVID-19 vaccine in fertility, and should be useful to promote vaccine acceptance. Multicenter prospective cohort studies are needed to validate our conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Tianshu Guan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lifeng Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Leizhen Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Dingfei Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Xingwu Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Lingling Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Mengyi Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chaoyi Xiong
- Department of Pathology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Liju Nie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Zengming Li
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Qiongfang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
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Kalfas T, Kaltsas A, Symeonidis EN, Symeonidis A, Zikopoulos A, Moustakli E, Tsiampali C, Tsampoukas G, Palapela N, Zachariou A, Sofikitis N, Dimitriadis F. COVID-19 and Male Infertility: Is There a Role for Antioxidants? Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1483. [PMID: 37627478 PMCID: PMC10451649 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), jeopardizes male fertility because of the vulnerability of the male reproductive system, especially the testes. This study evaluates the effects of the virus on testicular function and examines the potential role of antioxidants in mitigating the damage caused by oxidative stress (OS). A comprehensive PubMed search examined exocrine and endocrine testicular function alteration, the interplay between OS and COVID-19-induced defects, and the potential benefit of antioxidants. Although the virus is rarely directly detectable in sperm and testicular tissue, semen quality and hormonal balance are affected in patients, with some changes persisting throughout a spermatogenesis cycle. Testicular pathology in deceased patients shows defects in spermatogenesis, vascular changes, and inflammation. Acute primary hypogonadism is observed mainly in severely infected cases. Elevated OS and sperm DNA fragmentation markers suggest redox imbalance as a possible mechanism behind the fertility changes. COVID-19 vaccines appear to be safe for male fertility, but the efficacy of antioxidants to improve sperm quality after infection remains unproven due to limited research. Given the limited and inconclusive evidence, careful evaluation of men recovering from COVID-19 seeking fertility improvement is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aris Kaltsas
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Evangelos N. Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Asterios Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Efthalia Moustakli
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | | | - Georgios Tsampoukas
- Department of Urology, Oxford University Hospital NHS Trust, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK;
| | - Natalia Palapela
- Medical Faculty, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (A.S.)
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Nori W, Akeel Salman D. Seminal fluid changes in the COVID-19 era: During infection and Post-vaccination. GYNECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS CLINICAL MEDICINE 2023; 3:88-93. [PMID: 38620126 PMCID: PMC10133885 DOI: 10.1016/j.gocm.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) predilection for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors allows its entrance and replication; however, they are not biochemically required for viral fusion into the cell membrane. Testicular tissue has abundant ACE2 receptors, making it a target for the COVID-19 virus. Seminal fluid parameters are measures of male fertility. Changes in semen parameters have been caused by coronavirus disease and vaccines. Some attribute that effect to direct hematogenic spread to the testis; others propose that the excessive immunological response triggered by the infection causes a deleterious effect. An unsubstantiated claim questioned whether the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine could trigger an unintentional immunological response that would impair male fertility once receiving the vaccine. Extensive research confirms the transient nature of those changes that affect sperm motility and count with full recovery post-COVID-19 infection and after vaccination. The vaccine's safety was reaffirmed; however, there are currently no recommendations for screening sperm donors. Research is warranted to guarantee the safety of couples undergoing assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wassan Nori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Dina Akeel Salman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
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10
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Huang J, Fang Z, Liu Y, Xing C, Huang L, Mao J, Chen H, Huang Z, Xia L, Tang L, Zhang Z, Liu B, Huang H, Tian L, Ai X, Wu Q. Effect of female coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination on assisted reproductive outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:772-783. [PMID: 36702343 PMCID: PMC9868006 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination on fertility warrants clarification in women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment. OBJECTIVE To study the association between female COVID-19 vaccination and outcomes of assisted reproductive treatment. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, the Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and medRxiv and bioRxiv were searched for eligible studies from December 1, 2019, to November 30, 2022, with no language restrictions. STUDY SELECTION AND SYNTHESIS Observational studies comparing assisted reproductive outcomes between women with and without COVID-19 vaccination were included. The pooled estimates were calculated using the random-effects models as mean differences (MDs), standardized MDs, or odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic. MAIN OUTCOMES The number of oocytes retrieved and clinical pregnancy rate. RESULTS Twenty-one cohort studies involving a total of 19,687 treatment cycles were included. In a comparison of the vaccinated vs. unvaccinated groups, the pooled MD for oocyte number was -0.06 (95% CI, -0.51 to 0.39; I2 = 0), and the pooled odds ratio for clinical pregnancy was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.85-1.05; I2 = 0). Similarly, there were no statistically significant adverse effects identified in other outcomes determined a priori, including 4 cycle characteristics, 6 laboratory parameters, and 3 pregnancy indicators. Most results were consistently unchanged in subgroup and sensitivity analyses, with no evidence of publication bias according to Egger's test. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE Our work did not find significant differences in assisted reproductive outcomes between vaccinated and unvaccinated women. However, more data are warranted to confirm the safety of COVID-19 vaccination for assisted reproductive treatment and in female fertility in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiqi Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chutian Xing
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqin Mao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Houyang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihui Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Leizhen Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Tang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqin Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingqin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifeng Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Ai
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiongfang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of the National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Ata B, Vermeulen N, Mocanu E, Gianaroli L, Lundin K, Rautakallio-Hokkanen S, Tapanainen JS, Veiga A. SARS-CoV-2, fertility and assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:177-196. [PMID: 36374645 PMCID: PMC9976972 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the access to and provision of ART treatments. Gradually, knowledge of the virus and its transmission has become available, allowing ART activities to resume. Still, questions on the impact of the virus on human gametes and fertility remain. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This article summarizes published data, aiming to clarify the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 disease on human fertility and assisted reproduction, as well as the impact of vaccination, and from this, provide answers to questions that are relevant for people contemplating pregnancy and for health care professionals. SEARCH METHODS PUBMED/MEDLINE and the WHO COVID-19 database were searched from inception to 5 October 2022 with search terms focusing on 'SARS-CoV-2' and gametes, embryos, reproductive function, fertility and ART. Non-English studies and papers published prior to 2020 were excluded, as well as reviews and non-peer reviewed publications. Full papers were assessed for relevance and quality, where feasible. OUTCOMES From the 148 papers included, the following observations were made. The SARS-CoV-2-binding proteins, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2), are expressed in the testis, but co-expression remains to be proven. There is some evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ejaculate of COVID-19 patients with severe disease, but not in those with mild/moderate disease. SARS-CoV-2 infection can impair spermatogenesis, but this seems to resolve after one spermatogenic cycle. Testosterone levels seem to be lower during and after COVID-19, but long-term data are lacking; disease severity may be associated with testosterone levels. COVID-19 cannot be considered a sexually transmitted disease. There is no co-expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the myometrium, uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Oocytes seem to have the receptors and protease machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, viral RNA in oocytes has not been detected so far. Women contemplating pregnancy following COVID-19 may benefit from screening for thyroid dysfunction. There is a possible (transient) impact of COVID-19 on menstrual patterns. Embryos, and particularly late blastocysts, seem to have the machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most studies have not reported a significant impact of COVID-19 on ovarian reserve, ovarian function or follicular fluid parameters. Previous asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection in females does not seem to negatively affect laboratory and clinical outcomes of ART. There are no data on the minimum required interval, if any, between COVID-19 recovery and ART. There is no evidence of a negative effect of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on semen parameters or spermatogenesis, ovarian function, ovarian reserve or folliculogenesis. A transient effect on the menstrual cycle has been documented. Despite concerns, cross reactivity between anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies and Syncytin-1, an essential protein in human implantation, is absent. There is no influence of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine on patients' performance during their immediate subsequent ART cycle. Pregnancy rates post-vaccination are similar to those in unvaccinated patients. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review highlights existing knowledge on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 on fertility and assisted reproduction, but also identifies gaps and offers suggestions for future research. The knowledge presented should help to provide evidence-based advice for practitioners and couples contemplating pregnancy alike, facilitating informed decision-making in an environment of significant emotional turmoil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Edgar Mocanu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rotunda Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- Società Italiana Studi di Medicina della Riproduzione, S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Institute, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Juha S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oulu University Hospital and Medical Research Centre PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anna Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, IDIBELL Programme for Regenerative Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Rago V, Perri A. SARS-CoV-2 Infection and the Male Reproductive System: A Brief Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020586. [PMID: 36836943 PMCID: PMC9966870 DOI: 10.3390/life13020586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies have suggested that SARS-CoV-2, directly or indirectly, can affect the male reproductive system, although the underlined mechanisms have not been completely elucidated yet. The purpose of this review is to provide a summary of the current data concerning the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the male urogenital tract, with a particular emphasis on the testes and male fertility. The main data regarding the morphological alterations in the testes emerged from autoptic studies that revealed interstitial congestion, micro thrombosis, reduction of Sertoli, Leydig, and germinal cells, infiltrated immune cells, and atrophic seminiferous tubules consistent with orchitis. Furthermore, men with severe infection exhibit sperm parameter alterations, together with abnormalities of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis, strongly suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 could increase the risk of male infertility. However, despite the inadequate number of longitudinal studies, spermatogenesis and sex hormone imbalance seem to improve after infection resolution. The yet unresolved question is whether the virus acts in a direct or/and indirect manner, as discordant data related to its presence in the testis and semen have been reported. Regardless of the direct effect, it has been postulated that the cytokine storm and the related local and systemic inflammation could strongly contribute to the onset of testis dysfunction, leading to male infertility. Therefore, multicentric and longitudinal studies involving a large number of patients are needed to understand the real impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0984-496210; Fax: +39-0984-493271
| | - Anna Perri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy
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13
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The Impact of COVID-19 Vaccines on Male Semen Parameters: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Andrologia 2023. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/7826568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the development of adequate vaccines. Despite vaccines being demonstrated to be safe and effective for preventing severe disease and death, vaccine hesitancy remains. Reasons include concerns over adverse effects on male fertility, which have not been widely investigated. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on semen parameters in a retrospective cohort study of South African males undergoing fertility assessment. The patients for this study were adult men who have previously undergone routine semen analysis for fertility assessment at Androcryos Andrology Laboratory (Johannesburg, South Africa) between March 2021 and March 2022. They also received vaccination within 3 months following a semen analysis and underwent a second semen analysis any time post-COVID-19 vaccination. From 277 records analysed, 46 patients met the inclusion criteria, receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT162b1) (63%), Johnson and Johnson (JNJ-78436735/Ad26.COV2S) (34.8%), and the AstraZeneca (AZD1222) (2.2%) vaccines. Sperm concentration significantly increased postvaccination (
), with no significant changes in semen pH, volume, total sperm count, progressive motility, normal sperm morphology, or chromatin condensation. Results were not influenced by age, type of vaccine received, and the number of days following vaccination, as depicted by multiple regression analysis. In conclusion, there is no evidence of a negative impact of COVID-19 vaccination on male semen parameters, which is consistent with the emerging literature on COVID-19 vaccination and male fertility. COVID-19 vaccinations should not be dismissed based on fear of adverse effects on male fertility parameters.
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14
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Rhodes S, Badreddine J, Abou Ghayda R. There is not enough evidence to support the claim that Covid-19 vaccination BNT162b2 temporarily impairs semen concentration and total motile count. Andrology 2023; 11:6-7. [PMID: 36305481 PMCID: PMC9874827 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Rhodes
- Urology InstituteUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Jad Badreddine
- Urology InstituteUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology InstituteUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
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15
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Dong Y, Li X, Li Z, Zhu Y, Wei Z, He J, Cheng H, Yang A, Chen F. Effects of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on male fertility: A retrospective cohort study. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28329. [PMID: 36415120 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have revealed severe damage to male fertility from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, raising concerns about the potential adverse impact on reproductive function of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine developed based on the virus. Interestingly, there are several researchers who have studied the impact of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine since then but have come up with conflicting results. As a near-ideal candidate for mass immunization programs, inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine has been widely used in many countries, particularly in less wealthy nations. However, little is known about its effect on male fertility. Here, we conducted a retrospective cohort study at a single large center for reproductive medicine in China between December 2021 and August 2022. Five hundred and nineteen fertile men with no history of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were included and categorized into four groups based on their vaccination status: unvaccinated group (n = 168), one-dose vaccinated group (n = 8), fully vaccinated group (n = 183), and booster group (n = 160). All of them underwent a semen analysis and most had serum sex hormone levels tested. There were no significant differences in all semen parameters and sex hormone levels between the unvaccinated group and either vaccinated group. To account for possible vaccination-to-test interval-specific changes, sub-analyses were performed for two interval groups: ≤90 and >90 days. As expected, most of the semen parameters and sex hormone levels remained unchanged between the control and vaccinated groups. However, participants in vaccinated group (≤90 days) have decreased total sperm motility and increased follicle-stimulating hormone level compared with the ones in unvaccinated group. Moreover, some trends similar to those found during COVID-19 infection and recovery were observed in our study. Fortunately, all values are within the normal range. In addition, vaccinated participants reported few adverse reactions. No special medical intervention was required, and no serious adverse reactions happened. Our study suggests that inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination does not impair male fertility, possibly due to the low frequency of adverse effects. This information reassures young male population who got this vaccine worldwide, and helps guide future vaccination efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehao Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Zewu Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yunting Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Zichun Wei
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Jiarui He
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Hongju Cheng
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Aijun Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
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16
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Gat I, Kedem A, Dviri M, Hourvitz A, Baum M. Response to: There is not enough evidence to support the claim that Covid-19 vaccination BNT162b2 temporarily impairs semen concentration and total motile count. Andrology 2023; 11:8-9. [PMID: 36306197 PMCID: PMC9874437 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- Sperm Bank and Andrology UnitShamir Medical CenterZrifinIsrael,IVF DepartmentShamir Medical CenterZrifinIsrael,Sackler Medical SchoolTel Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
| | - Alon Kedem
- IVF DepartmentShamir Medical CenterZrifinIsrael,Sackler Medical SchoolTel Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael,Sperm BankHerzliya Medical CenterHerzliyaIsrael
| | - Michal Dviri
- IVF DepartmentHerzliya Medical CenterHerzliyaIsrael
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF DepartmentShamir Medical CenterZrifinIsrael,Sackler Medical SchoolTel Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
| | - Micha Baum
- Sperm BankSheba Medical CenterRamat GanIsrael
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17
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Huang J, Fang Z, Huang L, Fan L, Liu Y, Xia L, Xu D, Liu P, Chen J, Chen M, Tian L, Tan J, Wu Q. Effect of COVID-19 vaccination on semen parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28263. [PMID: 36310390 PMCID: PMC9874649 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination on semen parameters through systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were comprehensively searched by June 2022. Studies were considered eligible if they compared semen parameters before and after COVID-19 vaccination or between vaccinated and unvaccinated men, with no restrictions on vaccine types or doses. The effect size was calculated as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a random-effects model. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the sources of heterogeneity measured by the I2 statistic, with publication bias evaluated by Egger's test. Twelve cohort studies involving 914 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria. In a comparison of vaccinated versus unvaccinated group, the pooled data revealed no significant differences in semen volume (MD = 0.18 ml, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.38), sperm concentration (MD = 1.16 million/ml, 95% CI -1.34 to 3.66), total sperm motility (MD = -0.14%, 95% CI -2.84 to 2.56), progressive sperm motility (MD = -1.06%, 95% CI -2.88 to 0.77), total sperm count (MD = 5.92 million, 95% CI -10.22 to 22.05), total motile sperm count (MD = 2.18 million, 95% CI -1.28 to 5.63), total progressively motile sperm count (MD = -3.87 million, 95% CI -13.16 to 5.43), and sperm morphology (MD = 0.07%, 95% CI -0.84 to 0.97). The results also remained similar across messenger ribonucleic acid, viral-vector, and inactivated COVID-19 vaccines. Sensitivity analysis identified two individual studies that contributed to heterogeneity, while the effect size was not materially altered. No obvious publication bias was detected among included studies. Our finding suggested that COVID-19 vaccination had no detrimental impact on semen quality, which could be potentially helpful to reduce male vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Zheng Fang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tangdu HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Lingling Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Lu Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Yiqi Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Queen MaryNanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Leizhen Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Dingfei Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Peipei Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Jia Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Mengyi Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Lifeng Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Jun Tan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
| | - Qiongfang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health HospitalNanchang University School of MedicineNanchangChina
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18
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Deruelle F. The pharmaceutical industry is dangerous to health. Further proof with COVID-19. Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:475. [PMID: 36324959 PMCID: PMC9610448 DOI: 10.25259/sni_377_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 period highlights a huge problem that has been developing for decades, the control of science by industry. In the 1950s, the tobacco industry set the example, which the pharmaceutical industry followed. Since then, the latter has been regularly condemned for illegal marketing, misrepresentation of experimental results, dissimulation of information about the dangers of drugs, and considered as criminal. Therefore, this study was conducted to show that knowledge is powerfully manipulated by harmful corporations, whose goals are: 1/financial; 2/to suppress our ability to make choices to acquire global control of public health. Methods: Pharmaceutical industry techniques for manipulating science and COVID-19 reporting were reviewed. Several sources of official documents were used: PubMed; National Institutes of Health resources; pharmaceutical companies; policy documents; national newspapers and news agencies; and books by prominent professionals (scientific and legal). A few studies have not been published in peer-reviewed journals; however, they have been conducted by reputable scientists in their respective fields. Results: Since the beginning of COVID-19, we can list the following methods of information manipulation which have been used: falsified clinical trials and inaccessible data; fake or conflict-of-interest studies; concealment of vaccines’ short-term side effects and total lack of knowledge of the long-term effects of COVID-19 vaccination; doubtful composition of vaccines; inadequate testing methods; governments and international organizations under conflicts of interest; bribed physicians; the denigration of renowned scientists; the banning of all alternative effective treatments; unscientific and liberticidal social methods; government use of behavior modification and social engineering techniques to impose confinements, masks, and vaccine acceptance; scientific censorship by the media. Conclusion: By supporting and selecting only the one side of science information while suppressing alternative viewpoints, and with obvious conflicts of interest revealed by this study, governments and the media constantly disinform the public. Consequently, the unscientifically validated vaccination laws, originating from industry-controlled medical science, led to the adoption of social measures for the supposed protection of the public but which became serious threats to the health and freedoms of the population.
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19
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Gat I, Kedem A, Dviri M, Hourvitz A, Baum M. Authors response to Covid-19 vaccination, semen concentration and total motile count: Correspondence. Andrology 2022; 10:1014-1015. [PMID: 35904047 PMCID: PMC9353438 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- Sperm Bank & Andrology Unit, Shamir Medical Center, Zrifin, Israel.,IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zrifin, Israel.,Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Alon Kedem
- IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zrifin, Israel.,Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Israel.,Sperm Bank, Herzliya Medical Center, Israel
| | | | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zrifin, Israel.,Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Micha Baum
- Sperm Bank, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
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20
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Effects of COVID-19 vaccine on semen parameters. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:454. [PMID: 35831542 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00632-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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21
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Săndulescu MS, Văduva CC, Siminel MA, Dijmărescu AL, Vrabie SC, Camen IV, Tache DE, Neamţu SD, Nagy RD, Carp-Velişcu A, Manolea MM. Impact of COVID-19 on fertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART): a systematic review. ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF MORPHOLOGY AND EMBRYOLOGY = REVUE ROUMAINE DE MORPHOLOGIE ET EMBRYOLOGIE 2022; 63:503-510. [PMID: 36588488 PMCID: PMC9926143 DOI: 10.47162/rjme.63.3.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The appearance of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a major obstacle for the performing of current medical activities throughout the world. COVID-19 has affected humanity in many ways, thus causing a great medical, social, economic, and political instability. The aim of this study was to make an analysis of the scientific data obtained by so far to highlight the impact that COVID-19 has had on fertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART). Infection with SARS-CoV-2 alters the normal immune response by local and systemic damage to tissues and organs. After the virus enters the body, the first lesions are produced in the respiratory tract. Extrapulmonary lesions specific to COVID-19 include acute renal lesions/acute kidney damage, hepatocellular lesions, neurological diseases, myocardial dysfunction and arrhythmia, gastrointestinal diseases but also genital impairment. The possible impairment of the male reproductive system is because angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors are in an increased number in the testes, seminiferous duct cells, spermatogonia, Leydig cells and Sertoli cells. Many published studies to date have pointed out that COVID-19 could also affect female fertility and disrupt the functions of the female reproductive system. The theory that this virus can also be transmitted sexually and can cause infertility or testicular damage is supported by the fact that the virus can be isolated in the semen of COVID-19 patients but only during the disease. Choosing the best method of treating infertility during the COVID-19 pandemic is multifactorial, but the risk of infection and compliance with specific ART hygiene protocols must always be considered. Currently, there is no scientific basis regarding the fact that the COVID-19 vaccination would influence fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sidonia Săndulescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania;
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22
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Mungmunpuntipantip R, Wiwanitkit V. Covid-19 vaccination, semen concentration and total motile count: Correspondence. Andrology 2022; 10:1013. [PMID: 35775103 PMCID: PMC9349884 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Viroj Wiwanitkit
- Adjunct professor, Joseph Ayobabalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Nigeria
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23
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Pezzaioli LC, Gatta E, Bambini F, Facondo P, Gava M, Cavadini M, Buoso C, Di Lodovico E, Rotondi M, Ferlin A, Cappelli C. Endocrine system after 2 years of COVID-19 vaccines: A narrative review of the literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1027047. [PMID: 36440218 PMCID: PMC9685624 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1027047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to describe the current knowledge on the potential endocrine adverse effects post-COVID-19 vaccines. METHODS A PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus research was performed. Case reports, case series, original studies, and reviews written in English and published online up to 31 July 2022 were selected and reviewed. The final reference list was defined based on the relevance of each paper to the scope of this review. RESULTS The available data showed that endocrine side effects are generally rare and with favorable outcome, being thyroid disorders the most common. Conversely, data on type 1 diabetes mellitus are rare; adrenal and pituitary events are even anecdotal. Finally, the available clinical studies suggest no impact on female reproductive system and on male and couple fertility. CONCLUSION Overall, these data show that, after 2 years of COVID-19 vaccines, the endocrine system is not heavily threatened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Chiara Pezzaioli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Gatta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesca Bambini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Facondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Gava
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Cavadini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Caterina Buoso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elena Di Lodovico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mario Rotondi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Cappelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Carlo Cappelli,
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