Semen Research Articles

Evaluating the Effects of Heavy Metals on Seminal Fluid Anti Oxidants Status and Semen Parameters among Males with Infertility at Tertiary Health Centre in Nigeria

Abstract Introduction: There are evidences of a reduction in male fertility potential globally. This, coupled with the limitation of the gold standard investigative tool of male infertility, has become necessary that focus should be on elucidating the aetiopathogenic causes of male fertility. This includes the impact of environmental toxic products such as levels of heavy metals that have been proposed to impact both the sperm quality and seminal antioxidant status. The study assessed how the seminal concentrations of specific heavy metals such as cadmium, lead and Iron affect the seminal fluid analysis (SFA) parameters and seminal antioxidant status of males exhibiting abnormal parameters of sperm, analysing infertile male patients consecutively in a cross-sectional manner, with at least one abnormal SFA parameter, at a tertiary health centre. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty consenting males who have one or several anomalies with sperm characteristics were selected as subjects. Semen samples were collected, processed and centrifuged. The supernatants were analysed for the heavy metals using Buck Scientific 210/211VGP Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers 220GF Graphite Furnace and 220AS Autosampler and seminal Vitamins C and E, using spectrophotometric method and glutathione peroxidase, whereas catalase was analysed using ELISA method. Results: Subjects’ seminal levels of Cd, Fe and Pb were notably greater than those of controls, respectively. In addition, individuals’ levels of seminal antioxidants were noticeably lower than controls. Seminal antioxidant status and Seminal Cd, Fe and Pb were positive and negative significantly correlated with sperm count and active motility, respectively. Conclusion: Laboratory quantification of the seminal concentrations of these heavy metals in the evaluation of males with infertility, especially those still regarded as idiopathic, because of limitations of investigative tools and biomarkers, will be of clinical utility, in both the management and prevention of sperm quality deterioration.

Characterization of Chemical Exposome in A Paired Human Preconception Pilot Study.

Parental preconception exposure to synthetic chemicals may have critical influences on fertility and reproduction. Here, we present a robust LC-MS/MS method covering up to 95 diverse xenobiotics in human urine, serum, seminal and follicular fluids to support exposome-wide assessment in reproductive health outcomes. Extraction recoveries of validated analytes ranged from 62% to 137% and limits of quantification from 0.01 to 6.0 ng/mL in all biofluids. We applied the validated method to a preconception cohort of Australian couples (n = 30) receiving fertility treatment. In total, 36 and 38 xenobiotics were detected across the paired biofluids of males and females, respectively, including PFAS, parabens, organic UV-filters, plastic additives, antimicrobials, and other industrial chemicals. Results showed 39% of analytes in males and 37% in females were equally detected in paired serum, urine, and reproductive fluids. The first detection of the sunscreen ingredient avobenzone and the industrial chemical 4-nitrophenol in follicular and seminal fluids suggests it can cross both blood-follicle/testis barriers, indicating potential risks for fertility. Further, the blood-follicle transfer of perfluorobutanoic acid, PFOA, PFHxS, PFOS, and oxybenzone corroborate that serum concentrations can be reliable proxies for assessing exposure within the ovarian microenvironment. In conclusion, we observed significant preconception exposure to multiple endocrine disruptors in couples and identified potential xenobiotics relevant to male and female fertility impairments.

Blown spun fibers-based colorimetric sensor for detecting trace zinc in seminal fluid

Blown spun fibers-based colorimetric sensor for detecting trace zinc in seminal fluid

Hepatitis C Virus RNA and Genotype in Semen of Primitively Diagnosed Patients Infected with HCV-RNA Infection Amongst the Community of Lahore Cantt

Objective: To determine whether Hepatitis C virus is present in the seminal fluid of primitively diagnosed patients and subsequent genotyping of semen-positive samples. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Darul Shifa Clinic and the PCR Lab, Lahore Pakistan, from Apr 2021 to May 2022. Methodology: We studied 100 patients with diagnosed Hepatitis C infection via Polymerase Chain Reaction. The reverse transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction was used to detect the presence of the Hepatitis C virus in the semen of these sample patients. Results: Mean age of enrolled 100 male patients was 33.86±7.9 years. Only 4% of semen samples tested HCV RNA positive, while 96% were negative. The results of multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction revealed that 50% of cases showed genotype 2a and 50% cases showed genotype 3a out of 4 positive cases of HCV RNA. Conclusion: The observed viral prevalence was relatively low; nevertheless, the potential for pathogen dissemination remains significant. These findings contribute to our understanding of disease transmission dynamics and may have implications for epidemiological modeling and public health interventions.

Regional specialization, polyploidy, and seminal fluid transcripts in the Drosophila female reproductive tract

Sexual reproduction requires the choreographed interaction of female cells and molecules with sperm and seminal fluid. In internally fertilizing animals, these interactions are managed by specialized tissues within the female reproductive tract (FRT), such as a uterus, glands, and sperm storage organs. However, female somatic reproductive tissues remain understudied, hindering insight into the molecular interactions that support fertility. Here, we report the identification, molecular characterization, and analysis of cell types throughout the somatic FRT in the premier Drosophila melanogaster model system. We find that the uterine epithelia is composed of 11 distinct cell types with well-delineated spatial domains, likely corresponding to functionally specialized surfaces that interact with gametes and reproductive fluids. Polyploidy is pervasive: More than half of lower reproductive tract cells are ≥4C. While seminal fluid proteins (SFPs) are typically thought of as male products that are transferred to females, we find that specialized cell types in the sperm storage organs heavily invest in expressing SFP genes. Rates of amino acid divergence between closely related species indicate heterogeneous evolutionary processes acting on male-limited versus female-expressed seminal fluid genes. Together, our results emphasize that more than 40% of annotated seminal fluid genes are better described as shared components of reproductive transcriptomes, which may function cooperatively to support spermatozoa. More broadly, our work provides the molecular foundation for improved technologies to catalyze the functional characterization of the FRT.

A view of immunologic male infertility from the perspective of preserving seminal fluid homeostasis

The basis of the pathogenesis of immunologic male infertility is the production of antisperm antibodies against sperm antigens by plasmocytes. Extracellular nucleic acids, among other antigens, are perceived as DAMPs. The clearance system for biological fluids is complex. Endonucleases are responsible for the utilization of extracellular DNA. Among endonucleases, DNase 1 is the most studied. Its concentration in biological fluids is higher than others. For the first time, we determined the concentration of DNase 1 in the seminal fluid of men of reproductive age. DNase 1 concentration values were compared with the level of antisperm antibodies in the ejaculate, after which the relationship between the enzyme level and standard spermogram parameters was determined. The material for the study was the ejaculate of 44 relatively healthy men of reproductive age. During spermiological analysis, macroscopic and microscopic parameters of seminal fluid were determined, the concentration of deoxyribonuclease 1 (DNase 1) in the material was determined by enzyme immunoassay, and the presence of antisperm antibodies was assessed using a direct diagnostic method – the MAR test. Statistical processing of the obtained data was carried out using analytical software PAST v. 4.06. Reference intervals for DNase 1 concentrations were calculated using the MedCalc v. 17.4 program. The relationship between spermogram parameters and DNase 1 concentration was assessed by calculating Spearman’s linear rank correlation coefficients. As a result, a negative correlation was found between the DNase 1 ratio and such ejaculate parameters as liquefaction time (rS = -0.37; p = 0.013) and viscosity (rS = -0.37; p = 0.013), as well as the level of antisperm antibodies A (rS = -0.43; p = 0.003) and G (rS = -0.33; p = 0.027), the mucous component of the ejaculate (rS = -0.37; p = 0.012) and agglutination of male germ cells (rS = -0.33; p = 0.029). According to the data obtained, the optimal level of DNase 1 is directly related to the quality of the ejaculate. Determination of DNase 1 concentration can serve as an additional diagnostic criterion for male immunological infertility. These data will expand our understanding of a man’s fertile potential.

Prostaglandin E2 suppresses KCNH1 gene expression and inhibits the proliferation of CaSki cervical cells through its four prostanoid PTGER subtypes

The main risk factor for cervical cancer is the persistent infection of high-risk HPV subtypes, notably HPV16. Another contributing factor is proinflammatory prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a lipid abundantly found in seminal fluid. PGE2, along with its receptors (PTGER1-4), contributes to cancer development; however, its specific role in the proliferation of cervical cancer models with high HPV16 copy numbers remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of PGE2 on the proliferation of CaSki cells, a cell line with a high HPV16 viral load. Surprisingly, PGE2 inhibited CaSki cell proliferation, while it increased the proliferation of SiHa, HeLa, and C-33 A cervical cancer cells. The effect of PGE2 on CaSki cell proliferation was specific, as estradiol increased cell growth. Furthermore, PGE2 suppressed expression and promoter activity of the cervical tumoral marker KCNH1. To discern the specific role of each receptor in cell proliferation, we generated stable CaSki cell lines overexpressing each receptor alongside control cells with an empty vector. Notably, PGE2 significantly inhibited cell proliferation in all stable transfected CaSki cells, suppressing oncogenic KCNH1 expression and its promoter activity. In conclusion, our findings indicate that PGE2 inhibits the proliferation of CaSki cervical cancer cells with a high HPV16 load, at least in part, by suppressing the expression of the oncogenic KCNH1 gene.

Characterizing the Impact of Dysregulated Micrornas on CRISP3 Isoforms in Male Infertility.

microRNAs (miRNAs) have a serious and dynamic function in spermatogenesis. These molecules have been recognized as crucial parts of the control of gene activity, and their involvement in the regulation of target genes has been extensively studied. This research aimed to determine the expression of CRISP3 and miR-493-5p, miR-204-5p, and miR-182-5p in the seminal plasma fluid and spermatozoa and to examine the relationship between CRISP3 and the mentioned miRNAs in 57 infertile men with Asthenozoospermia (AZ) (n = 19), Teratoasthenozoospermia (TAZ) (n = 19), and Normozoospermia (NZ) (n = 19).The selection of these three miRNAs, miR-493-5p, miR-204-5p, and miR-182-5p, was conducted using computational prediction algorithms. These miRNAs were nominated as CRISP3-associated miRNAs that can target CRISP3. We performed the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) method to determine the levels of the studied miRNA expression. In the following stage, the expression of two protein isoforms of CRISP3, targeted by these miRNAs, was quantified using western blotting. The results demonstrate significant differences in the levels of miR-182-5p, miR-204-5p, miR-493-5p, and CRISP3 isoforms among the patient groups. In TAZ individuals, miR-182-5p and miR-204-5p expression decreased, while miR-493-5p expression increased compared to the control samples. Additionally, significant differences were observed in the expression levels of unglycosylated and glycosylated CRISP3 isoforms between the AZ and NZ groups. Correlation analysis revealed associations between miRNA expression and the expression of CRISP3 isoforms in the patient groups. Additionally, there were correlations between the expression of CRISP3 isoforms and sperm motility and morphology. These results offer valuable insights into the underlying molecular processes associated with male infertility.

Exploring the Impact of Paternal B12 Levels During the Periconceptional Period on IUI Success

Background: The present study is a novel exploration of the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation on seminal fluid parameters and the outcomes of intrauterine insemination (IUI). Specifically, we aimed to evaluate the concentrations of vitamin B12 in blood and seminal plasma before and after two months of supplementation. Objectives: investigate the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation on the characteristics of seminal fluid parameters and IUI outcomes. Material and Methods: A randomized controlled experiment with 100 randomly selected infertile couples. The patients were divided into two equal groups according to their vitamin B12 dosage. Group A consists of 50 couples who are taking B12 supplements. Obtain blood and seminal plasma samples from couples to measure the level of vitamin B12. Group B consists of 50 couples and does not include any supplements. The couples in group B initiated ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) during the same month as the medical examination without the use of any additional supplements. Still, after two months of vitamin B12 supplement, group A started ovulation induction. Result: Basal semen parameters for sperm count, sperm motility in grades, and sperm morphology in the study group have a higher sperm count than the control group. Vitamin B12 intake for two months improves sperm morphology and increases sperm motility in grades A and B, according to the current study. This has a favorable effect on sperm count overall. Conclusion: research will determine the positive effect of vitamin B12 supplements on sperm parameters and IUI results.

A sexually transmitted sugar orchestrates reproductive responses to nutritional stress

Seminal fluid is rich in sugars, but their role beyond supporting sperm motility is unknown. In this study, we found Drosophila melanogaster males transfer a substantial amount of a phospho-galactoside to females during mating, but only half as much when undernourished. This seminal substance, which we named venerose, induces an increase in germline stem cells (GSCs) and promotes sperm storage in females, especially undernourished ones. Venerose enters the hemolymph and directly activates nutrient-sensing Dh44+ neurons in the brain. Food deprivation directs the nutrient-sensing neurons to secrete more of the neuropeptide Dh44 in response to infused venerose. The secreted Dh44 then enhances the local niche signal, stimulating GSC proliferation. It also extends the retention of ejaculate by females, resulting in greater venerose absorption and increased sperm storage. In this study, we uncovered the role of a sugar-like seminal substance produced by males that coordinates reproductive responses to nutritional challenges in females.

Gone but not forgotten: dynamics of sperm storage and potential ejaculate digestion in the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens.

Understanding the dynamics of sperm storage is essential to unravel the complexity of post-copulatory sexual selection processes in internally fertilized species. This physiological process goes from sperm transfer during copulation to its use for fertilization. In this context, the spatiotemporal dynamics of sperm storage were described in the black soldier fly (BSF) with fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). BSF females have compartmentalized spermathecae with a transfer compartment, the fishnet canals, and a storage compartment, the reservoirs. Spermatozoa were counted both during and after mating in the two compartments. In addition to seminal fluids, the male transfers a mass of sperm in the fishnet canals, then only 49% of the transferred spermatozoa reach the reservoirs over two days. TEM observations of the fishnet canals revealed potential digestive functions, explaining the decline in the number and viability of spermatozoa in this compartment but not in the reservoirs. After one mating, females laid up to three fertile clutches, showing no constraints on sperm quantity or quality. Spermatic and ultrastructural investigations strongly suggest that BSF ejaculate acts both as a sperm plug and as a nuptial gift, reinforcing the interest in studying this farming insect as a new model for sexual selection.

Gene regulation by mating depends on time, diet, and body region in female Aedes aegypti

Aedes aegypti is a major vector of several arboviruses that cause human mortality and morbidity. One method for controlling the spread of these viruses is to control mosquito reproduction. During mating, seminal fluid molecules and sperm are transferred and these stimuli influence female post-mating physiology and behavior. Yet, little is known about the mechanisms underlying these post-mating responses. To fill this gap, short-read RNA sequencing was used to identify differentially expressed genes between unmated (control) and mated females in the head/thorax (HT), abdomen (Ab) and the lower reproductive tract (LRT), of mosquitoes reared with 3% and 12% sucrose. The results revealed that at 3% sucrose, four, 408 and 415 significantly differential expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the HT, Ab and LRT at six hours post mating (hpm). The number of DEGs dropped dramatically at 24 hpm with no DEGs in the HT, three in the Ab, and 112 in the LRT. In contrast, the number of DEGs was lower at 6 hpm than 24 hpm in the LRT at 12% sucrose. Comparing our results to a similar study which used 10% sucrose revealed evidence in support of condition-dependent regulation of gene expression by mating in this species. This study shows that mating-induced transcriptional changes depend on time point after mating, body region, and diet. Our results provide foundational knowledge for future functional analyses to identify genes and pathways involved in the post-mating behavioral and physiological changes of female mosquitoes.

Seminal Malondialdehyde (MDA) Levels in Iraqi Males with Infertility: Exploring the Relationship with Body Mass Index (BMI)

Background: The investigation of the relationship between BMI and MDA levels in male infertility is pivotal for comprehending the underlying mechanisms of infertility, pinpointing potential therapeutic targets, and devising personalized approaches to enhance fertility outcomes in men. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to explore the correlation between MDA levels in seminal fluid and infertility in Iraqi males, along with its potential association with Body Mass Index (BMI). Methodology: Ninety males aged between twenty and forty-five were included in this cross-sectional study, all diagnosed with infertility by specialists at the infertility unit of Al-Batool Teaching Hospital between February 2022 and February 2023. The participants were categorized into three groups: the Normozoospermic Group (G1), the Asthenospermia Group (G2), and the Oligozoospermic Group (G3). Results: The distribution of age and BMI across the study groups (G1, G2, and G3) appeared to be uniform and not statistically significant, indicating more noticeable variations among the groups. However, waist circumference (WC) analysis suggested statistically significant differences among the groups, highlighting a non-negligible change in the frequency of obesity within the groups participating in the study. Between the study groups, there was no statistically significant difference in smoking habits. The seminal fluid MDA levels for G1 were significantly lower than those for G2 and G3. Additionally, Seminal plasma MDA levels and BMI showed a non-significant positive correlation. Conclusion: There is no correlation between BMI and MDA levels in male infertility.

Effects of Cryptorchidism on the Semen Quality of Giant Pandas from the Perspective of Seminal Plasma Proteomics

Giant pandas are an endangered species with low reproductive rates. Cryptorchidism, which can negatively affect reproduction, is also often found in pandas. Seminal plasma plays a crucial role in sperm–environment interactions, and its properties are closely linked to conception potential in both natural and assisted reproduction. The research sought to identify seminal fluid protein content variations between normal and cryptorchid giant pandas. Methods: Using a label-free MS-based method, the semen proteomes of one panda with cryptorchidism and three normal pandas were studied, and the identified proteins were compared and functionally analyzed. Results: Mass spectrometry identified 2059 seminal plasma proteins, with 361 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that these DEPs are mainly involved in the phosphate-containing compound metabolic, hydrolase activity, and kinase activity areas (p ≤ 0.05). The KEGG functional enrichment analysis revealed that the top 20 pathways were notably concentrated in the adipocyte lipolysis and insulin metabolism pathway, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Further analysis through a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network identified nine key proteins that may play crucial roles, including D2GXH8 (hexokinase Fragment), D2HSQ6 (protein tyrosine phosphatase), and G1LHZ6 (Calmodulin 2). Conclusions: We suspect that the high abundance of D2HSQ6 in cryptorchid individuals is associated with metabolic pathways, especially the insulin signal pathway, as a typical proteomic feature related to its pathological features. These findings offer insight into the ex situ breeding conditions of this threatened species.

Evaluation of polymer combinations in vaginal mucoadhesive tablets for the extended release of acyclovir

Genital herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), affects nearly 500 million people, mostly women. Since the main route of transmission is sexual contact, the development of an acyclovir extended-release vaginal microbicide would be a suitable tool for the prevention of virus transmission. In this work, we evaluated the potential of three polymers with different characteristics (chitosan, xanthan gum and ethyl cellulose) for obtaining acyclovir extended-release vaginal tablets. By combining the polymers, certain useful synergies were observed to modify their mucoadhesive capacity and control drug release. In the swelling studies, it observed that a polyelectrolyte complex with more moderate swelling and sustained gelation was formed between chitosan and xanthan gum exclusively in acidic medium (simulated vaginal fluid). This complex allowed prolonging the mucoadhesion of the tablets in ex vivo studies performed with vaginal mucosa, which would translate into better retention in the vagina after administration. In addition, the combination of chitosan and xanthan gum allowed obtaining a controlled release of acyclovir for 5 days, regardless of the pH of the medium, which would guarantee that drug release continues even in the presence of seminal fluid.

Clinical Analysis of Acupuncture Combined with Acupoint Injection for the Treatment of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis

Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of acupuncture combined with acupoint injection on chronic nonbacterial prostatitis (CNP). Methods: A total of 72 CNP patients admitted between March 2022 and October 2023 were selected. The patients were randomly divided into two groups using a random number table. The combined treatment group (36 cases) received acupuncture combined with acupoint injection therapy, while the control group (36 cases) received conventional Western medicine treatment. The overall efficacy rate, symptom severity, prostatic fluid indicators, incidence of adverse reactions, and recurrence rates were compared. Results: The overall efficacy rate of the combined treatment group was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). After 10 days of treatment, the symptom severity score of the combined treatment group was higher than that of the control group, and the prostatic fluid indicators were lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the combined treatment group was lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). During the follow-up period of 1–6 months, the recurrence rate in the combined treatment group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Acupuncture combined with acupoint injection can alleviate CNP disease symptoms, improve prostate function, and prevent post-treatment adverse reactions. It also has a lower recurrence risk and demonstrates excellent efficacy.

Interacting phenotypic plasticities: Do male and female responses to the sociosexual environment interact to determine fitness?

Socially induced plasticity in reproductive effort is a widely documented phenomenon. However, few empirical studies have examined how male and female plastic responses to the social environment might interact in determining fitness outcomes. In field crickets, Teleogryllus oceanicus, males respond to rival song by increasing expenditure on seminal fluid proteins that enhance competitive fertilization success at the cost of reduced embryo survival. It remains unknown whether plastic responses in females could moderate the effects of male competitiveness on offspring performance. Here we used a fully factorial design to explore the interacting effects on fitness of male and female plasticity to the sociosexual environment. We found that female crickets exposed to male song increased the number of eggs produced during early life reproduction, which came at a cost of reduced offspring size. There was evidence, albeit weak, that interacting effects of male and female sociosexual environment contributed to variation in the hatching success of eggs laid by females. Lifetime offspring production was unaffected by the sociosexual environments to which upstream male and female plastic responses were made. Our data offer a rare test of the theoretical expectation that male and female plasticities should interact in their effects on female fitness.

Effects of short-term oral letrozole on fresh semen parameters, endocrine balance, and prostate gland dimensions in domestic dogs

BackgroundAromatase inhibitors improve male fertility by modifying the hormonal control of spermatogenesis. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of oral administration of letrozole on testosterone and estradiol concentrations and their ratios in blood serum, seminal plasma, prostatic fluid, sperm quality in fresh semen, and prostate gland dimensions. Seven adult male intact mixed-breed dogs were selected. The animals received letrozole (72 µg/kg, PO) daily for four weeks. Blood samplings and semen collections were carried out on days 0 (control), 14 (treatment), 28 (treatment), and 42 (post-treatment).ResultsOur results showed that letrozole administration resulted in a 4.3 fold significant increase in serum, seminal plasma, and prostatic fluid testosterone levels after 14 days. This remained high until the end of the study. Serum and prostatic fluid estradiol levels did not change significantly over the study period. However, the seminal plasma estradiol level showed a significant increase on day 14. The estradiol: testosterone ratio was significantly reduced on day 14 in serum, seminal plasma, and prostatic fluid samples. Letrozole significantly improved the ejaculated spermatozoa viability and concentration after 28 days of oral administration. However, the sperm plasma membrane functional integrity and kinematic parameters were not significantly affected by the treatment. Transabdominal ultrasound examination revealed a significant increase in the height, width, and volume of the prostate gland after 28 days of treatment.ConclusionsAccording to the present research, oral administration of letrozole for 28 days affects local and systemic sex hormone balance leading to an improvement of the ejaculated canine spermatozoa viability and concentration concurrent with an increase in the prostate gland dimensions.

A prospective study of the association between varicoceles and semen quality in men with infertility

BackgroundMale infertility is a global problem, and varicoceles are a common and treatable cause of male infertility. This study prospectively evaluated the effects of varicoceles on the fertility status and potential among Nigerian men. The consequences of the presence, location, and grades of varicoceles on the fertility status of infertile men with varicoceles were determined using a Doppler scrotal ultrasound scan and their seminal fluid parameters.MethodsOne hundred infertile males with clinical varicoceles (study group) and 100 infertile males without varicocele (control group) were recruited. Varicoceles were confirmed/excluded and graded with an ultrasound scan in each subject. They also all had a seminal fluid analysis to measure their fertility potential. The findings were compared and correlated in the two groups.ResultsMost subjects in the study group (67%) had bilateral varicoceles, 31% had isolated left varicoceles, and only 2% had isolated right varicoceles. The majority of the participants (61%) in the study group had secondary infertility, while the majority (63%) in the control group had primary infertility (p = 0.001). There were significant increases in the prevalence of azoospermia (p = 0.008) and oligospermia (p = 0.030) with the higher grades of left varicoceles.ConclusionBilateral varicoceles were significantly present in males with infertility in the study group. Varicoceles were more common in males with secondary infertility, and higher grades of varicoceles were significantly more associated with azoospermia and severe oligospermia. We recommend the routine use of ultrasound scans to diagnose varicoceles for the optimal management of infertile male patients.

Assessment of the Effects of Subclinical Hypothyroidism on Male Reproductive Parameters: A Meta-Analysis Approach

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is a common endocrine disorder that potentially affects reproductive health. Despite its prevalence, the precise relationship between SCH and sperm quality remains unclear. A comprehensive search was conducted across electronic databases to identify relevant studies exploring the association between SCH and sperm quality parameters, covering literature published from January 2000 to January 2024. The standard mean difference (SMD) was used to compute pooled effect estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Additionally, meta-regression and subgroup analyses were performed to investigate the potential sources of heterogeneity. The meta-analysis included a thorough examination of ten studies comprising 2239 participants. According to the findings of this meta-analysis, SCH significantly affects sperm quality. Specifically, the study suggests a decrease in the volume of seminal fluids (SMD = -0.186; 95% CI: -0.385 to 0.013; P = 0.067), total sperm count (SMD = -0.604; 95% CI: -1.178 to -0.030; P = 0.039), sperm morphology (SMD = -0.784; 95% CI: -1.405 to -0.162; P = 0.013), and progressive motility (SMD = -1.437; 95% CI: -2.147 to -0.727; P < 0.001). However, SCH was also associated with an increase in sperm concentration (SMD = 0.112; 95% CI: -0.058 to 0.281; P = 0.017). Our meta-analysis provides compelling evidence of the adverse effects of SCH on sperm quality parameters. These findings underscore the importance of considering the thyroid function in the assessment and management of male infertility.