Research Advances on the Adverse Effects of Antibiotics on Male Fertility

Abstract

With the widespread use of antibiotics, bacterial infection-related morbidity and mortality have significantly declined, revolutionizing modern medicine. However, concerns have been raised concerning the negative effects of antibiotics on a number of physiological systems, including the health of male reproductive systems. The purpose of this in-depth review is to investigate and summarize the body of knowledge about the effects of antibiotics on male fertility. Antibiotics may have negative impacts on male reproductive characteristics, according to a growing body of studies over the past few decades. Several antibiotic groups, including fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, and sulfonamides, have been linked to altered sperm quality, lower sperm count, impaired sperm motility, altered DNA integrity and morphology of sperm. Male reproductive health is thought to be negatively impacted by antibiotics in a multifactorial manner. It has been suggested that hormonal imbalances, oxidative stress, and disturbances of the delicate male reproductive system's balance may be the underlying mechanisms for the effects that have been observed. Additionally, changes brought on by antibiotics to the gut microbiota, which is known to be extremely important for overall health, may indirectly affect male fertility by altering systemic inflammation and hormone regulation. Additionally, the timing and length of antibiotic exposure appear to be important variables in determining their effect on male fertility, of which there is proof that repetitive or continued drug use may have more severe side effects. The possible negative effects of antibiotics on male fertility are highlighted in this review. Although the available data support a logical relationship between antibiotic usage and male reproductive health, more, well conducted research on humans are still required to clarify the underlying mechanisms and determine the clinical relevance of these results. Future studies in this field might open the door to stronger protections for male fertility while ensuring efficient control of bacterial infections.