Male Partners Of Infertile Couples Research Articles

The Effect of Age on Semen Quality Among Male Partners of Infertile Couples: An Observational Study in a Tertiary Care Center in Eastern India.

Male infertility contributes to a significant proportion of infertility cases, and advanced paternal age has been suggested to affect semen quality and fertility. However, the relationship between age and semen quality remains inconclusive, with conflicting findings reported in the literature. This study aimed to investigate the effect of age on semen quality among male partners of infertile couples in a tertiary care center in eastern India. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted, involving 390 male participants aged 21-50 years, who were referred to the andrology laboratory for semen analysis between January 2019 and December 2022. Participants were categorized into three age groups (21-30, 31-40, and 41-50 years). Semen parameters, including sperm concentration, semen volume, motility, and morphology, were assessed according to the World Health Organization guidelines. Among the participants, no significant differences were observed in semen volume, motility, and morphology across different age groups.However, a statistically significant difference in sperm concentration among the three age groups was observed (p = 0.022). Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between age and sperm concentration (r = 0.124, p = 0.013) as well as total sperm count (r = 0.10, p = 0.049). In this study, no significant decline in semen quality with age was found among male partners of infertile couples aged 21-50 years. These findings highlight the complex relationship between age and semen quality and emphasize the need for further research to better understand the underlying mechanisms and provide more conclusive evidence regarding the impact of age on male fertility.

Association of BMI with Semen Parameters in the Male Partners of Infertile Couples: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: In today’s scenario, obesity is increasing in children and young adolescents, and they are more likely to continue as obese adults. Temporal trends indicate that obesity is increasing while fertility is decreasing. Studies worldwide have reported a negative association between obesity and male fertility, but studies from India are scarce. Hence, there is a need to study the extent of the association between obesity and infertility. Aim: To evaluate the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and semen parameters in the male partners of infertile couples. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Government Medical College Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, from August 2021 to August 2022. On total of 66 participants divided into two groups: Group A consisted of overweight and obese participants (BMI ≥23.0 kg/m2 ), and Group B consisted of participants with normal BMI (BMI <23 kg/m2 ). The semen parameters studied were semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, total motility, and progressive motility. Semen samples were analysed according to the WHO 2010 guidelines. Continuous variables were expressed as mean±standard deviation. Unpaired t-test was used to compare the groups. Results: The mean age in Group A and Group B was 30.18±4.5 and 28.27±4.35 years, respectively (p<0.08). The mean BMI in Group A and Group B was 27.01±2.94 kg/m2 and 20.29±1.69 kg/m2 , respectively (p<0.0001). The mean sperm concentration in Group A was 37.01±42.6 million, and in Group B, it was 90.24±56.11 million (p<0.0001). Total motility in Group A was 27.8±31.36%, and in Group B, it was 57.9±28.41% (p<0.0001). Progressive motility in Group A was 18.75±24.79%, and in Group B, it was 42.63±26.15% (p<0.0003). Conclusion: In the present study, high BMI (obesity and overweight) was significantly associated with low sperm concentration, count, and motility

Erectile Dysfunction and Infertility: A Pilot Study in Male Partners of Infertile Couples

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) and infertility are important health concerns with negative impacts on the quality of life and couple’s relationship, which is emerging as an early marker for decreased general health. Objectives: This pilot study intended to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of erectile dysfunction in men of infertile couples referred to an in vitro fertility center in northern Vietnam. Methods: A total of 138 men of infertile couples were enrolled in this study from January to May 2018. The International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire scale was used to evaluate the severity of ED. Also, several related factors were collected to determine potential risk factors. Results: The prevalence of ED among was 18.1%, including 13 mild ED (9.4%), 7 mild to moderate ED (5.1%), 2 moderate ED (1.4%), and 1 severe ED (0.7%). The logistic regression analysis showed that risk factors associated ED were smoking > 5 pack/years (OR = 3.16, CI = 0.98 - 10.18; P = 0.05), not graduating from junior high school (OR = 5.11; CI = 1.11 - 23.8; P = 0.03) and azoospermia (OR = 7.55; CI = 2.18 - 26.16; P = 0.001). We observed relatively high OR in men with smoking < 5 pack/years (OR = 2.51) and abnormal semen analysis (hypospermia, oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, or teratozoospermia) (OR = 2.36), but there was no significant difference compared to the reference group. Conclusions: In the present study, the prevalence of ED among men of infertile couples was higher than non-infertile men. Low level of education, smoking for a long period, and azoospermia were the main risk factors of ED in men. Further large-scale studies are needed to extend the results.

Low Testosterone and Semen Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples Undergoing IVF with a Total Sperm Count Greater than 5 Million.

Low serum testosterone is found in approximately 15% of subfertile men. Although testosterone is essential in spermatogenesis, it is unclear whether low testosterone levels may have a negative impact on the semen parameters of men belonging to infertile couples with a total sperm count greater than 5 million. Furthermore, it is debatable whether the initial evaluation of the subfertile male should include an endocrine assessment. This was a retrospective, single-center cohort study conducted at a tertiary fertility clinic. Male partners of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), with a total sperm count greater than 5 million, were included. All men provided morning blood samples, and none had been on exogenous testosterone or other relevant medications. Low total testosterone (TT) was defined as <264 ng/dL. Free T was calculated using TT and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels (nmol/L) by a constant albumin concentration of 43 g/L. In total, 853 patients were included: 116 had low TT (<264 ng/dL) and 737 had normal TT (≥264 ng/dL). Semen volume, sperm cell count, progressive (A + B) motility and morphology (≥4% strict Kruger) were lower in the low TT group but not significantly different between low and normal TT groups (3.2 ± 1.79 vs. 3.23 ± 1.64, p = 0.87; 76.82 ± 83.18 vs. 67.55 ± 57.70, p = 0.7; 54.89 ± 19.45 vs. 56.25 ± 19.03, p = 0.6; 5.77 ± 3.23 vs. 6.89 ± 3.94, p = 0.23). The percentage of patients with below-reference sperm volume (<1.5 mL), cell count (<15 × 106/mL), motility (A + B) (<32%) and morphology (<4%) was higher in the low TT group but not statistically different compared to the normal TT group. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that low TT and free T levels had no significant effect on the aforementioned semen parameters (coefficient: 3.94, 0.88, 1.37, 0.39; p = 0.53, 0.8, 0.3, 0.2; coefficient: 0.001, 0.06, 0.007, 0.0002; p = 0.73, 0.52, 0.85, 0.98). Despite our robust methodological approach, the presence of biases related to retrospective design cannot be excluded. Our findings highlighted the lack of association between low TT levels and semen parameter alterations in male partners of infertile couples undergoing IVF, with a total sperm count greater than 5 million. However, it is important to emphasize that more patients in the low TT group had subnormal semen parameters, albeit the difference was not statistically significant. Larger, prospective studies are warranted in order to validate these findings, as well as to investigate the existence of a TT threshold below which semen parameters might be negatively affected.

Selected Risk Factors and Pattern of Semen Abnormality in Male Partners of Infertile Couples in Eastern Nepal: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

Semen analysis is an initial basic step in evaluating and diagnosing male infertility. Multiple risks factors in combination or alone are responsible for abnormal semen parameters. The present study aimed to study certain risk factors and semen parameters of infertile male. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study. We consecutively enrolled 186 male partners of infertile couple who underwent certain risk factors evaluation and semen analysis according to WHO guideline. Multiple risk factors were present like Gulf country migration, smoking, chemical exposure and heat exposure in infertile male partners. Forty six percent of our patients were gulf workers. Eleven percent patients had azoospermia, 27% had abnormal sperm morphology and 23% had <25% motile spermatozoa. Surprisingly 46% of our patients were Gulf country workers and abnormal semen analysis is very important factor for infertility. Large prospective studies need to be carried out involving Gulf migrant workers only.

Sperm Abnormalities: In the Male Partners of Infertile Couples from Kanyakumari District

ABSTRACTBackgroundInfertility has been identified as a health issue worldwide and it is of great concern among married couples in our society. Scientifically, it has been established that both males and females can contribute to infertility. However, in most cases, women are held responsible for the same without proper diagnosis. Statistically, female factors contribute to about 40–60% of infertility cases, whereas 20–40% of infertility cases are due to factors contributed by males, of which, deficiency in semen quality is the major cause which accounts for 40–50% of infertility cases. A decrease in semen quality has been reported which can be due to lifestyle changes, occupational exposures to chemicals, heat, and stress.AimsTo study the prevalence of infertility, distribution of sperm abnormalities, and the impact of occupation on men visiting a tertiary clinic.Settings and designMale partners of infertile couples who visited the fertility center were considered for the study.Materials and methodsSeminal fluid was analyzed for volume, sperm concentration, motility (progressive motility), and morphology.ResultsIn this study conducted in our center, we found that 55.8% of the patients had sperm abnormalities, among which teratozoospermia was the commonly observed anomaly.ConclusionMale factors equally contribute to infertility as female factors. Semen analysis is the crucial diagnostic test for infertility assessment of the male partner.Key messagesThe incidence of male infertility has been increasing recently and the evaluation and prognosis of male subfertility are challenging. Although semen analysis is the primary test for the assessment of infertility in males, it does not recognize the abnormality in idiopathic infertility. Thus, new techniques and methods need to be developed to improve accuracy and reduce variation.How to cite this articleViswambharan N, Manavalan M. Sperm Abnormalities: In the Male Partners of Infertile Couples from Kanyakumari District. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2020;11(1):16–19.

Premature Ejaculation and Erectile Dysfunction in Male Partners of Infertile Couples: Prevalence and Correlation

Objectives: The frequency of, and relationship between, the various manifestations of male sexual dysfunction in infertile couples have been poorly investigated, especially in Vietnam. Our study aims to assess the prevalence of premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction in infertile couples using validated instruments, and the relationship between these disorders. Method: Cross-sectional descriptive study, using validated questionnaires including the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) and the International Index of Erectile Function-15 (IIEF-15), to measure the incidence of these problems in 255 male partners of infertile couples who were examined from January through December 2017, at the Center for Reproductive Endocrinology &amp; Infertility, Hue University Hospital. Results: The prevalence of overt premature ejaculation was 4.7%, probable premature ejaculation was 7.1%, and erectile dysfunction was 26.3% (mild: 19.3%, mild-to-moderate: 3.9%, moderate: 2.7%, and severe: 0.4%). The PEDT total score was negatively correlated to IIEF-15-EFD and IIEF-15 total scores (r [Formula: see text]0.322 and r [Formula: see text]0.348, respectively). Conclusions:In light of the identified prevalence of premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction in the studied population, screening for these conditions should be included in the evaluation of infertile couples. These two disorders could negatively reciprocal effect on each other.

Effect of Smoking and Alcohol Consumption on Reproductive Hormones and Semen Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples

Effect of Smoking and Alcohol Consumption on Reproductive Hormones and Semen Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples

Male Partners of Infertile Couples With Seminal Positivity for Markers of Bacterial Vaginosis Have Impaired Fertility.

To access the possibility that key markers of bacterial vaginosis (KM-BV) could affect seminal parameters and thus fertility a prospective cohort study was designed (a) to develop rapid and sensitive multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR) assays to screen 13 key markers of bacterial vaginosis (KM-BV) in semen specimens, (b) to determine the prevalence of KM-BV in semen from randomized male partners of couples seeking fertility evaluation. A total of 229 semen samples were included in the study from males who visited the Sperm Analysis Section of Brazil between October 2015 and March 2016. Eligible men were 18 years or older and had a semen analysis due fertility evaluation (after failing to conceive with their partner after 1 year of unprotected intercourse). Basic seminal parameters were analyzed, and KM-BV was detected by M-PCR assays. M-PCR assays clearly distinguished 13 KM-BV in 146 semen samples (63.8%), mainly Gardnerella vaginalis (50.7%). Some important associations occurred between the presence of KM-BV in semen and changes in seminal parameters. KM-BV is commonly present in the semen of males seeking fertility evaluation and could potentially play significant roles in male subfertility and/or infertility.

The effect of metabolic syndrome on male reproductive health: A cross-sectional study in a group of fertile men and male partners of infertile couples.

This study aimed to determine the effect of metabolic syndrome (MS) on the reproductive function in fertile (FM) and male partners of infertile couples (MPIC). We performed a cross-sectional study formatting two study groups: partners of pregnant women (n = 238; mean age 32.0) as FM and male partners of infertile couples (n = 2642; mean age 32.6) as MPIC. A standard semen analysis was performed and clinical, laboratory and lifestyle data were analysed. The adapted NCEP-ATPIII criteria were used to define MS. 12.2% of FM and 17.8% of MPIC had MS. In both groups, men with MS were older, they were centrally obese and had higher triglycerides, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and decreased HDL cholesterol values as compared to men without MS. However, glucose concentrations as well as fasting insulin levels were significantly higher only in the MPIC-MS+ group. MS was not associated with semen parameters. Testosterone levels were negatively correlated to MS in both groups. This negative association persisted within the BMI categories between MPIC-MS- and MPIC-MS+ groups. LH was negatively correlated to MS but only in MPIC. FSH and oestradiol were not correlated to MS. Smoking and alcohol consumption were higher among men with MS. This study shows that except for testosterone, MS has no independent effect on major fertility parameters in different subgroups of men.

Effects of Herpes Simplex Virus Infections on Seminal Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples

To assess the possibility that herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection could affect seminal parameters, we (1) standardize and validate a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR) assay to detect HSV-1 and HSV-2 in semen, and (2) determine the prevalence of HSV-1/-2 in the semen of randomized male partners of couples seeking fertility evaluation. A total of 279 semen samples were included in the study from men who visited the Sperm Analysis Section of São Camilo Laboratory of Maringá, Brazil, between November 2014 and July 2015. Eligible men were 18 years or older and had a semen analysis due fertility evaluation (after failing to conceive with their partner after 1 year of unprotected intercourse). Basic seminal parameters were analyzed, and HSV-1 and HSV-2 were detected by M-PCR. The M-PCR assay clearly distinguished and identified 2 HSV types in semen samples. HSV in total was detected in 10.7% of samples, of which 7.5% had HSV-1 exclusively and 3.2% had HSV-2 exclusively. We detected a significant association of HSV-2 infection with hematospermia and with a lower mean seminal volume, and between HSV-1 infection and a lower mean sperm count. These findings suggest that the male partners of infertile couples with HSV infections may have changes on the 2 equally important components of semen, spermatozoa and seminal fluid, which may influence fertility. Further studies enrolling a larger number of patients are necessary to confirm these data and to elucidate the clinical relevance of HSV presence in semen.

Male Partners of Infertile Couples with Seminal Infections of Human Papillomavirus Have Impaired Fertility Parameters.

Several studies have addressed the impact of viral infections on male infertility. However, it is still unknown whether human papillomavirus (HPV) can alter seminal parameters. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HPV in the semen of male partners of couples seeking fertility evaluation. Additionally, we assessed the possibility that HPV infections affect seminal parameters. A total of 229 semen samples were collected from men in the Sperm Analysis Section of São Camilo Laboratory of Maringá, Brazil, between October 2015 and March 2016. Basic seminal parameters were analyzed, and HPV was detected and genotyped by polymerase chain reaction. HPV DNA was detected in 16.6% of samples. Of these, 10.5% had single type HPV infections, 6.1% had multiple HPV infections, 5.7% had exclusively high-risk HPV, and 6.1% had exclusively low-risk HPV. Samples positive for single and multiple types of HPV were associated with abnormal viscosity, and samples positive for multiple HPV types were also associated with hypospermia, higher pH, and increased leukocyte numbers. These findings suggest that the male partners of infertile couples with seminal HPV infections may have prostate disturbances indicative of glandular dysfunction, which may influence fertility.

Analysis of Semen Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples

Analysis of Semen Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples

Semen Quality of Male Partners of Infertile Couples Attending Fertility Clinics in Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria

Semen Quality of Male Partners of Infertile Couples Attending Fertility Clinics in Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria

Effect of Environmental Factors, Lifestyle, Lipid Profile and Previous Medical Conditions on Semen Quality in Male Partners of Infertile Couples; Evidence from Kumasi Metropolis

Effect of Environmental Factors, Lifestyle, Lipid Profile and Previous Medical Conditions on Semen Quality in Male Partners of Infertile Couples; Evidence from Kumasi Metropolis

Pattern of Semen Parameters and Factors Associated with Infertility in Male Partners of Infertile Couples in Nigeria

Background: Infertility is a urological and common gynecological problem. Male factor contributes significantly to the aetiology of infertility. Semen analysis has remained a useful investigation in the search for male factor infertility. Most studies on semen pattern were done based on the World Health Organization (WHO) 1999 criteria for human values for semen characteristics. Objective: To determine the prevalence of infertility, pattern of semen parameters and factors associated with infertility in Nigerian male partners of infertile couples. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study of infertile couples presenting at the infertility clinic between January 2014 and December 2015 was carried out at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, South-western Nigeria. Seminal fluid from the male partners was analysed in the laboratory using the World Health Organization (WHO) 2010 criteria for human semen characteristics. Results: A total of 443 men participated in the study and 38.2% had abnormal semen parameters. Oligozoospermia (34.8%) and asthenozoospermia (26.9%) were the leading abnormal factors. Smoking habit and previous groin surgery significantly predicted abnormal semen parameters, p<0.05. Staphylococcus aureus was the commonest organism for infection. Infertility and abnormal semen parameters were most prevalent at age group 31-35 years.Age range of male partners was 30-60 years with a mean age of 36.36 + 5.07. Duration of infertility was 1-11 years. The prevalence of secondary infertility was 83.7%. Conclusion: There is a growing trend in the prevalence of secondary infertility in Nigeria. Oligozoospermia coupled with smoking habit and previous pelvic operations are the significant predictive factors for infertility. Men should be encouraged to participate early in the investigation of infertility.

Anthropometric and Lifestyle Changes in Male Partners of Infertile Couples in which the Women is Obese are Associated with Pregnancy - Preliminary Results

To assess the impacts of a lifestyle intervention targeting obese infertile women on their male partners and whether anthropometric or lifestyle changes in partners could influence couples’ fertility.

Abstract #903: Patterns of Seminal Fluid Analysis in Male Partners of Infertile Couples Attending Gynecological Clinic at Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta

Abstract #903: Patterns of Seminal Fluid Analysis in Male Partners of Infertile Couples Attending Gynecological Clinic at Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta

Semen Abnormality Patterns and Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples in Dakar (Senegal)

Introduction: Inter individual variation for semen on analysis is well known. Therefore, Semen profile is not the same in individuals from different geographic locations, environments, ways of life, and populations. It is important for a laboratory to have an idea of the semen profile of its population, especially for those who present with infertility. The aim of this study was to draw the pattern of semen abnormalities in male partner of infertile couple in Dakar, Senegal. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of all the semen samples of male partners of infertile couples submitted for analysis in the laboratory of Cytogenetic and Reproductive Biology of Dakar at the University Teaching hospital from January 2013 to June 2014. Results: A total of 262 male semen analyses were reported. Analysis was performed according to WHO, 2010 manual for examination of human semen. Our study reveals that 80.9% of men in infertile couples present an abnormality in sperm pattern. The main one is oligo-astheno-terato-necrozoospermia (20.2%), followed by azoospermia, (14.1%), astheno-necrospermia (10.3%) and astheno-terato-necro-zoospermia (10.3%). Leucocytospermia was found in 57.8%. Teratozoospermia (80.9%) was the most associated abnormality, followed by necrozoospermia (76.2%). Low sperm count under 5 million per ml concerned 27.7% of the patients, and 11.2% patients had low ejaculate volume. Nearly 42.1% of the male partners are potential candidates for Assisted Reproductive Technology for male infertility. Conclusion: The high rate of semen abnormality in patients of infertile couples and consequently the high rate of potential candidates to Assisted Reproductive Technology for male infertility are important reasons for taking into account rigorously the male subject if we want to improve fertility rate in our context. The pattern of the specific abnormalities found is precious clues to guide management of these patients.

Molecular detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and other sexually transmitted bacteria in semen of male partners of infertile couples in Tunisia: the effect on semen parameters and spermatozoa apoptosis markers.

This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasmas, and Ureaplasmas in semen samples of the male partners of infertile couples and to investigate whether Chlamydia trachomatis could initiate apoptosis in human spermatozoa. A total of 85 males partners of infertile couples undergoing routine semen analysis according to World Health Organization guidelines were included. Specimens were examined for the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum by Real time PCR (qPCR). Semen specimens were analysed for the appearance of apoptotic markers (sperm DNA fragmentation, activated caspase 3 levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm)) using flow cytometry. C. trachomatis, N. gonorrhoeae, U. urealyticum, M genitalium were detected in semen samples of 13 (15.2%), 5 (5.8%), 5 (5.8%) and 3 (3.5%) male partners of infertile couples, respectively. M. hominis and U. parvum were detected in semen sample of only one patient (1.1%). The semen of infertile men positive for C. trachomatis showed lower mean of semen count and lower rapid progressive motility (category [a]) of spermatozoa compared to uninfected men with statistically significances (p = 0.02 and p = 0.04, respectively). Flow cytometry analyses demonstrated a significant increase of the mean rate of semen with low ΔΨm and caspase 3 activation of infertile men positive for C. trachomatis compared to uninfected men (p = 0.006 and p = 0.001, respectively). DNA fragmentation was also increased in sperm of infertile men positive for C. trachomatis compared to uninfected men but without statistical significances (p = 0.62). Chlamydial infection was associated to loss of ΔΨm and caspase 3activation. Thus, C. trachomatis infection could be incriminated in apoptosis induction of spermatozoa. These effects may explain the negative direct impact of C. trachomatis infection on sperm fertilizing ability.