Total Semen Volume Research Articles

Sexual Functions in Men with Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study with Fertile Men.

To examine the sexual and psychological conditions of men with Bilateral Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens (CBAVD), a rare condition that contributes to male infertility, and compare it with healthy fertile men. A total of 52 patients with CBAVD and 66 healthy, fertile men who attended our infertility and andrology clinic were included in the study. Patients with cognitive impairments, language barriers, significant comorbidities, or a history of urogenital surgery were excluded. Reproductive hormone levels and semen volumes were evaluated. In addition, sexual status was investigated with validated questionnaires such as the International Index of Erectile Function, Male Sexual Health Questionnaire, Arabic Index of Premature Ejaculation, Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool, and Premature Ejaculation Profile. In the CBAVD group, median total testosterone, FSH, LH levels, and semen volume were 401 ng/dL, 3.9 mIU/ml, 3.9 mIU/ml, and 0.9 ml, respectively. These parameters were 376 (ng/dL), 4.8 mIU/ml, 5 mIU/ml, and 3 ml in the control group. Semen volume was significantly lower in CBAVD men (p< 0.001). Questionnaires assessing erectile and ejaculatory function have shown that there was no significant difference between the CBAVD and control groups in terms of erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual relationship satisfaction. However, sexual desire (p=0.006) and overall satisfaction (p=0.028) were found to be higher in the CBAVD group. The study suggests that CBAVD may not be a direct etiological factor for erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.

Seasonal variations in semen traits of exotic cattle bulls of different age groups in the subtropical region

Background: The age of the bull and season of semen collection may significantly impact semen characteristics, although the results of previously published studies vary somewhat. Unfortunately, breeding programs still do not account for male reproductive traits for a bull's fertility. The effects of season and age on the quality of exotic cattle breeds’ semen have been investigated in the current study. Methods: Two exotic cattle breeds, Jersey and Holstein Friesian, have been chosen from the subtropical region of India for study. The pooled dataset from the Information Network for Animal Productivity &amp; Health (INAPH, 2017–2022) containing data collected at the Frozen Semen Bank in Bassi, Jaipur, India, on three semen traits was used in the study. Three semen traits of exotic bulls – total semen volume, sperm concentration, and the number of sperms per ejaculation were examined in connection to the influences of age and season. Results: The age of the bulls was found to influence the concentration and sperm counts significantly. The semen volume was minimal in the older group, while the sperm concentration was lowest in the adult group. All the tested semen traits were highest in summer and lowest in winter. Conclusion: Therefore, it was concluded that the age and seasonal variations significantly influence the semen quality of exotic cattle breeds and suggested that the reproductive traits of the bulls should be considered for the breeding programs.

Association of urinary and seminal plasma vanadium concentrations with semen quality: A repeated-measures study of 1135 healthy men

Although animal studies have shown the reproductive toxicity of vanadium, less is known about its effects on semen quality in humans. Among 1135 healthy men who were screened as potential semen donors, we investigated the relationships of semen quality with urinary and seminal plasma vanadium levels via inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Spearman rank correlation tests and linear regression models were used to assess the correlations between average urinary and within-individual pooled seminal plasma vanadium concentrations (n = 1135). We utilized linear mixed-effects models to evaluate the associations of urinary and seminal plasma vanadium levels (n = 1135) with repeated sperm quality parameters (n = 5576). Seminal plasma vanadium concentrations were not significantly correlated with urinary vanadium concentrations (r = 0.03). After adjusting for possible confounders, we observed inverse relationships of within-individual pooled seminal plasma vanadium levels with total count, semen volume, and sperm concentration (all P values for trend < 0.05). Specifically, subjects in the highest (vs. lowest) tertile of seminal plasma vanadium concentrations had − 11.3% (−16.4%, −5.9%), − 11.1% (−19.1%, −2.4%), and − 20.9% (−29.0%, −11.8%) lower sperm volume, concentration, and total count, respectively; moreover, urinary vanadium levels appeared to be negatively associated with sperm motility. These relationships showed monotonically decreasing dose-response patterns in the restricted cubic spline analyses. Our results demonstrated a poor correlation between urinary and seminal plasma levels of vanadium, and elevated vanadium concentrations in urine and seminal plasma may be adversely related to male semen quality.

(199) The Impact of Obesity on Sperm Parameters in Young Adult Males: A Retrospective Study of Sperm Donors

Abstract Introduction Studies estimate that sperm concentrations have declined by 52.4% over the past 40 years. Concurrent with this decline in male fertility, obesity remains a growing epidemic in the United States, with the prevalence in men rising from 26.6% in 1999 to 38.4% in 2016. Thus, this decline in sperm concentration may be attributable to many causes, including lifestyle factors such as obesity. The gold standard diagnostic method for assessing male fertility is semen analysis. Due to screening criteria, sperm banks offer a unique sample of individual-level semen analyses of healthy men without comorbidities including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes. While the association between BMI and sperm parameters has previously been shown, these studies do not exclude individuals with obesity-related comorbidities, as participants presented as couples who were seeking care for infertility. Objective To utilize a large sample of healthy young men who meet strict sperm bank donor eligibility criteria to evaluate the association between BMI and individual sperm parameters, independent of comorbidities. Methods Sperm parameters from donor candidates at sperm banks across the United States were obtained between 2008 to 2021. Donors were healthy men aged 18-46 years old who abstained from ejaculation for 48 hours prior to donation. Semen samples were analyzed in a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified lab using guidelines by the World Health Organization (WHO). A univariable model between BMI and individual sperm parameters (total sperm count, volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility) was conducted. Results There was a total of 135,578 sperm donations included in our study. The median age was 26 (IQR: 8), with 1146 (0.8%) men identified as underweight, 89,590 (66%) as normal weight, 41,362 as overweight (31%), 3,438 (3%) as obesity class I and 42 (0.03%) as obesity class II (Table 1). Participants had a median total motile sperm count of 194 (IQR: 134 million), volume of 3.45 (IQR: 1.8mL), sperm concentration of 58 (IQR: 34 million/mL) and a motility of 61.5 (IQR: 18%). We found that total motile sperm count (B = -69, p &amp;lt; 0.01) and volume (B = -1.14, p &amp;lt;0.01) were significantly lower in men with a BMI ≥ 35, compared to normal weight men (sperm count = 213 million; volume = 3.67 mL; Table 2). Conclusions We report significantly lower total sperm count and semen volume in healthy young men who have a BMI ≥ 35 as compared to those who are normal weight. Although these values are within the normal range of sperm parameters established by the WHO, our ability to detect differences even within this specific population of men without obesity-related comorbidities highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for preserving high sperm counts. With the increase in infertility concerns amongst younger men and the rise of obesity prevalence within the United States, our work highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen throughout early adulthood to maintain normal sperm parameters. Disclosure No.

Relationship of environmental exposure temperature and temperature extremes on sperm DNA fragmentation index in men with different BMI values and the indirect effect of DNA fragmentation index on semen parameters

Prior studies have established a significant correlation between the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and infertility. Additionally, certain investigations suggest that environmental exposure may serve as an etiological factor impacting semen quality. This study aimed to explore the impact of season, ambient temperature, and weather extremes on the DFI of sperm, along with other relevant parameters. Furthermore, it sought to assess how ambient temperature affects the DFI of sperm and other semen parameters in populations with varying BMI values. Additionally, the study analyzed the transient indirect effect of DFI on sperm parameters. This retrospective study analyzed semen samples from 11,877 men, selected based on female factor considerations, spanning from January 2016 to December 2021. Participants were grouped according to the season of semen collection. The results showed that samples collected in summer had a lower semen volume and sperm motility, while those collected in autumn had a lower DFI. We analyzed the exposure-response ratio between environmental exposure temperature and semen parameters using a generalized additive model. Results showed that the curve of the exposure-response relationship was U-shaped or inverted U-shaped; when the air temperature exposure was below the threshold, for each degree of temperature increase, the total sperm motility, sperm concentration, and progressive motility increased by 0.16 %, 0.29 × 10 (Levine, 1999)/ml and 0.14 %, respectively, while the DFI and inactivity rate decreased by 0.078 % and 0.15 %, respectively. When the air temperature exposure exceeded the threshold, for each degree of temperature increase, the sperm concentration, total sperm motility, semen volume and progressive motility decreased by 0.42 × 10 (Levine, 1999)/ml, 0.11 %, 0.0078 ml and 0.15 %, respectively, while the DFI and inactivity rate increased by 0.13 % and 0.12 %, respectively. Extremely cold weather during spermatogenesis was positively correlated with DFI, and extremely hot weather was negatively correlated with sperm motility. Subgroup analysis revealed that individuals classified as overweight / obese exhibited more pronounced changes in sperm parameters and the DFI in response to variations in environmental exposure temperature compared to those with a normal BMI. In the analysis of the relationship between DFI and sperm parameters, the results showed an inverted U-shape relationship between DFI and semen volume, and a negative correlation between DFI and sperm concentration and sperm motility. And we found that ambient temperature affects sperm parameters through DFI at low as well as average temperatures, whereas at high temperatures this indirect effect is no longer present.

Spatial–Temporal Characteristics of Semen Quality in Infertile Men in Wenzhou, China during 2010–2018

Background. Declining semen quality has become one of the most serious public health problems worldwide; however, the spatial–temporal characteristics of semen quality of infertile men remain unknown. Objective. To explore spatial–temporal characteristics of semen quality of infertile men in Wenzhou from 2010 to 2018 and thereby provide a scientific basis for development of strategies to enhance male reproductive health. Methods. We obtained 22,978 semen sample data from 2010 to 2018 from the Reproductive Medicine Center and Urology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University in Wenzhou, China. Linear regression analyses and spatial autocorrelation analyses were used to study spatial–temporal characteristics of semen quality parameters. Results. Overall, from 2010 to 2018, mean values for total sperm number and semen volume showed linear increasing trends, and mean values for total sperm motility showed linear decreasing trend (all P &lt; 0.05 ). Cold spot analyses of progressive sperm motility, total sperm motility, and normal sperm forms were also in main urban area of Wenzhou (Lucheng District, Ouhai District, Longwan District, and Dongtou District) and hot spot were also in nonmain urban area of Wenzhou (mainly including Taishun County, Pingyang County, and Wencheng County). However, hot spot analyses of total sperm number and semen volume were mainly in Dongtou District. Conclusions. The main urban area is the “harder-hit area” of semen quality, while for the islands area is the “high-withdrawal area.” Government departments need to pay more attention to improve male reproductive health in the main urban areas and actively control the potential influencing factors of male reproductive health, such as occupational exposure and life stress. Good environmental quality and plenty of seafood intake may be beneficial to semen quality.

Vitamin D supplementation for improving sperm parameters in infertile men: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

ABSTRACT Objective Vitamin D has been hypothesized to have a potential role in altering sperm motility and metabolism. However, experimental studies have demonstrated inconsistent results between vitamin D and sperm parameters. This study aims to investigate the role of vitamin D supplementation to improve sperm parameters in infertile men. Methods This is a systematic review and meta-analysis study. We comprehensively conducted a search on ClinicalTrials.gov, IRCT.ir, Europe PMC, and PubMed and collected published studies on vitamin D supplementation and sperm parameters for infertile men. The risk of bias was assessed by using Risk of Bias version 2 (RoB v2) and the statistical analysis was performed by using Review Manager 5.4 software. Results Five trials with a total of 648 infertile men were included. Our meta-analysis showed that supplementation with vitamin D may significantly improve total sperm motility [mean difference 4.96 (95% CI 0.38, 9.54), p = 0.03, I 2 = 69%], progressive sperm motility [mean difference 4.14 (95% CI 0.25, 8.02), p = 0.04, I 2 = 89%], and normal sperm morphology [mean difference 0.44 (95% CI 0.30, 0.57), p < 0.00001, I 2 = 0%] better than placebo in infertile men. However, total sperm count (p = 0.15), sperm concentration (p = 0.82), and semen volume (p = 0.83) did not differ significantly between two groups. Conclusions Vitamin D supplementation may improve sperm motility, progressive sperm motility, and morphology in infertile men. Vitamin D supplementation may be considered in managing male fertility issue.

EFFECT OF VARICOCELECTOMY ON SEMEN ANALYSIS AND CLINICAL PARAMETERS

To determine changes in semen and clinical parameters following varicocelectomy. Prospective comparative study conducted on 30 Methods: patients at Santosh Medical college and hospital, Ghaziabad., undergoing varicocelectomy. Study aimed at comparing the semen analysis and various clinical parameters (pain VAS score and size of the swelling) postoperatively, at 3 month and 6 monthly follow up. Semen pH Results: value and total semen volume did not show any statistically signicant improvement postoperatively. Post operatively statistically signicant improvement was seen in total sperm count, motility as well as sperm morphology. The improvement was more when preoperative parameters were in lower range compared to normal range parameters. 7 patients who were oligospermic preoperatively showed marked improvement in their sperm count at 3 and 6 months respectively(p value 0.001); which is more signicant improvement than preoperatively normospermic patients (p value 0.003). Postsurgery sperm motility showed signicant improvement, better results were seen when preoperative motility was &lt; 28% versus when motility was &gt;28%. Signicant improvement in sperm morphology postoperatively(p value 0.001)was seen, with better results in patients with preoperative sperm morphology &lt;3% versus &gt;3%. Mean VAS score showed statistically signicant decrease at 3 months and at 6 months postoperatively (p value 0.001).83.3% patients were relieved of pain at 6months follow up post surgery. Of the 12 patients who presented with swelling, 11 patients showed signicant decrease in swelling size at 6 months follow up postoperatively. We advice varicocelectomy Conclusions: in all patients of varicocele who are either clinically symptomatic with scrotal pain and swelling, and also in asymptomatic patients with subnormal semen parameters.

Diurnal rhythm of human semen quality: analysis of large-scale human sperm bank data and timing-controlled laboratory study.

STUDY QUESTIONCan we identify diurnal oscillations in human semen parameters as well as peak times of semen quality?SUMMARY ANSWERHuman semen parameters show substantial diurnal oscillation, with most parameters reaching a peak between 1100 and 1500 h.WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADYA circadian clock appears to regulate different physiological functions in various organs, but it remains controversial whether diurnal rhythms occur in human semen parameters.STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATIONThe medical record of a provincial human sperm bank (HSB) with 33 430 semen samples collected between 0800 and 1700 h from 1 March 2010 to 8 July 2015 was used to analyze variation in semen parameters among time points. A laboratory study was conducted to collect semen samples (n = 36) from six volunteers at six time points with identical time intervals (2 days plus 4 h) between 6 June and 8 July in 2019, in order to investigate the diurnal oscillation of semen parameters in vivo, with a strictly controlled abstinence period. Therefore, the sperm bank study with a large sample size and the in vivo study with a strictly controlled abstinence period in a 24-h time window could be compared to describe the diurnal rhythms in human semen parameters.PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODSSamples were obtained from potential HSB donors and from participants in the laboratory study who were volunteers, recruited by flyers distributed in the community. Total sperm count, sperm concentration, semen volume, progressive motility and total motility were assessed using computer-aided sperm analysis. In addition, sperm chromatin integrity parameters (DNA fragmentation index and high DNA stainability) were assessed by the sperm chromatin structure assay, and sperm viability was measured with flow cytometry in the laboratory study.MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCEThe 33 430 samples from the HSB showed a temporal variation in total sperm count, sperm concentration, semen volume, progressive motility and total motility (all P < 0.001) between 0800 and 1700 h. Consequently, the eligibility of semen samples for use in ART, based on bank standards, fluctuated with time point. Each hour earlier/later than 1100 h was associated with 1.14-fold risk of ineligibility. Similarly, the 36 samples taken during the 24-h time window showed diurnal oscillation. With the pre-collection abstinence period strictly controlled, most semen parameters reached the most favorable level between 1100 and 1500 h.LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTIONSome of the possible confounding factors, such as energy intake, which might influence semen quality or diurnal rhythms, were not adjusted for in the analyses. In addition, the findings should be considered with caution because the study was conducted in a specific population, time and place, while the timing of oscillations could differ with changing conditions.WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGSThe findings could help us to estimate semen quality more precisely and to obtain higher quality sperm for use in ART and in natural conception.STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81871208) and National Key R&D Program of China (2017YFC1002001). There are no conflicts of interest to declare.TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERN/A.

Low-level and combined exposure to environmental metal elements affects male reproductive outcomes: Prospective MARHCS study in population of college students in Chongqing, China

BackgroundMale fertility has shown a continuously declining tendency for decades. Over exposure to metal/metalloid elements has been proposed as associated with reproductive impairment. However, the hazard profile remained unclear in general public experiencing low-level and combined metal exposure. MethodsBased on the MARHCS cohort in Chongqing, China, 796 college students were recruited from June 2013 and 666 subjects were followed up next year. At each phase, semen and blood samples were collected for an assessment of semen quality and six sex hormones levels. Eighteen urinary metal/metalloid elements were quantified by ICP-MS as internal exposure biomarkers. Cluster analysis was conducted to characterize reproductive outcomes in the subgroups for different overall estimated exposure levels. Effects of each metal/metalloid element were analyzed using multiple statistical strategies: single-element mixed model, multiple-elements model and self before-after comparison design. ResultsThe urine concentration for 18 metal/metalloid elements was at a typically lower level (far away from the exposure limits) and positively associated with each other. After adjustment of the potential confounders, a decrease of 11.53% (95% CI: −18.61, −3.84%) and 10.84% (95% CI: −17.93, −3.14%) in spermatid morphology was observed in the highest quantile groups of vanadium (V) and nickel (Ni), respectively. Urinary silver (Ag) was dose-dependent associated with an increase in total sperm number (6.91%, 95% CI: 1.14, 13.00%), sperm concentration (16.38%, 95% CI: 5.15, 28.81%) and semen volume (23.73%, 95% CI: 10.46, 38.60%). Further, hormone testosterone presented a significant decrease in subgroup with higher overall estimated exposure and a stable negative association with lithium (Li). The above relationships remained significant across different statistical strategies (all p values <0.05). ConclusionOur study provided new evidences that exposure to metal/metalloid elements potentially exert bidirectional influences on semen quality at a relatively low level. And serum testosterone appears as a vulnerable index for metal exposure.

Impact of Varicocele Repair on Semen Parameters in Infertile Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Despite the significant role of varicocele in the pathogenesis of male infertility, the impact of varicocele repair (VR) on conventional semen parameters remains controversial. Only a few systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMAs) have evaluated the impact of VR on sperm concentration, total motility, and progressive motility, mostly using a before-after analytic approach. No SRMA to date has evaluated the change in conventional semen parameters after VR compared to untreated controls. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of VR on conventional semen parameters in infertile patients with clinical varicocele compared to untreated controls. A literature search was performed using Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases following the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome (PICOS) model (Population: infertile patients with clinical varicocele; Intervention: VR [any technique]; Comparison: infertile patients with clinical varicocele that were untreated; Outcome: sperm concentration, sperm total count, progressive sperm motility, total sperm motility, sperm morphology, and semen volume; Study type: randomized controlled trials and observational studies). A total of 1,632 abstracts were initially assessed for eligibility. Sixteen studies were finally included with a total of 2,420 infertile men with clinical varicocele (1,424 patients treated with VR vs. 996 untreated controls). The analysis showed significantly improved post-operative semen parameters in patients compared to controls with regards to sperm concentration (standardized mean difference [SMD] 1.739; 95% CI 1.129 to 2.349; p<0.001; I²=97.6%), total sperm count (SMD 1.894; 95% CI 0.566 to 3.222; p<0.05; I²=97.8%), progressive sperm motility (SMD 3.301; 95% CI 2.164 to 4.437; p<0.01; I²=98.5%), total sperm motility (SMD 0.887; 95% CI 0.036 to 1.738; p=0.04; I²=97.3%) and normal sperm morphology (SMD 1.673; 95% CI 0.876 to 2.470; p<0.05; I²=98.5%). All the outcomes showed a high inter-study heterogeneity, but the sensitivity analysis showed that no study was sensitive enough to change these results. Publication bias was present only in the analysis of the sperm concentration and progressive motility. No significant difference was found for the semen volume (SMD 0.313; 95% CI -0.242 to 0.868; I²=89.7%). This study provides a high level of evidence in favor of a positive effect of VR to improve conventional semen parameters in infertile men with clinical varicocele. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first SRMA to compare changes in conventional semen parameters after VR with changes in parameters of a control group over the same period. This is in contrast to other SRMAs which have compared semen parameters before and after VR, without reference to a control group. Our findings strengthen the available evidence and have a potential to upgrade professional societies' practice recommendations favoring VR to improve conventional semen parameters in infertile men.

The Association Between Dietary Antioxidants and Semen Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Iranian Infertile Men.

We aimed to explore the relationship between intakes of food-derived antioxidants (zinc, vitamin E, β-carotene, and selenium) and semen parameters in an infertile male population. This is a cross-sectional study among infertile men (> 18years) referred to Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center in Iran from March 2019 to October 2019. The main outcome measures were semen volume, sperm count, concentration, total motility, and morphology. Micronutrients considered in this analysis were zinc, selenium, β-carotene, and vitamin E. A total of 350 infertile men with a mean (SE) age of 34.77 (0.42) were included in this study. Selenium intake tended to be positively associated with higher semen volume (β = 0.79; 95% CI: - 0.01, 1.59) and sperm total motility after adjustment for main confounders (β = 2.64; 95% CI: - 3.61, 8.89). Intake of β-carotene was only associated with higher sperm total motility (β = 5.46; 95% CI: - 0.84, 11.77). No significant association was detected between intakes of zinc and vitamin E and semen parameters.In a population of infertile adult men, selenium intake was associated with higher sperm total motility and semen volume, and in the case of β-carotene, better sperm total motility. Further, prospective studies are warranted.

The effects of two different antioxidant combinations on sperm parameters.

Studies demonstrate that getting antioxidants in the course of treatment has a positive impact beneficial effect on fertility, especially on the quality of sperm. Because of that reason antioxidants are recommended as a potentially influential treatment for infertility in men. However, it is argued that this treatment is not based on sufficient evidence and has no effect on the rate of healthy pregnancy. In this study, two different antioxidant combinations with different doses and contents were evaluated in terms of their effect on sperm parameters. A total of 122 patients diagnosed with idiopathic infertility were enrolled in our multicenter study. The patients were divided into two different groups: The first group used a combination 2 × 1 sachet form (l-carnitine 1 g, acetyl-l-carnitine 0.5 g, fructose 1 g, citric acid 0.50 mg, selenium 50 µg, coenzyme Q10 20 mg, vitamin C 90 mg, zinc 10 mg, folic acid 200 µg, and vitamin B12 1.5 µg) and the second group used a combination tablets form 2 × 1 (l-carnitine 500 mg, selenium 50 µg, coenzyme Q10 20 mg, vitamin C 60 mg, zinc 15 mg, folic acid 400 µg, vitamin E, and ginseng 15 µg) for 6 months. The total semen volume, the total sperm number, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and lastly morphological findings of the patients were compared at the end of 6 months. The mean age of the patients participating in the study was 30.8 ± 6.05 years. No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of baseline sperm count. There was a significant difference between the baseline and sixth-month values of the patients using both combinations. However, no significant statistical difference was found between the groups according to the sixth-month data. The combinations of both antioxidants had a positive effect on sperm parameters, and the use of different doses and contents had a similar effect. Both antioxidants respectively had a positive effect on sperm parameters and also the use of different doses and contents had a similar effect.

Exposures to Ambient Particulate Matter Affect Semen Quality: A Case Study of Wenzhou, China

Background: Previous studies have shown that particulate matter (PM) may have a negative effect on semen quality. However, the results of most studies on the association between PM and semen quality are inconsistent. Objectives: To assess the potential influence of PM on semen parameters during different exposure periods. Methods: Using data form the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University in Wenzhou, China, we analyzed 8822 semen samples between March 3, 2014 and March 15, 2019. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the association of semen parameters (progressive motility, total motility, total sperm number, sperm concentration, semen volume and sperm morphology) with personal exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 during the period of sperm development (0-90 days before each semen examination) and key periods (0-9 days, 10-14 days and 70-90 days before each semen examination). Results: Overall, during the 0-90 lag days, PM2.5 and PM10 were associated with reduced progressive motility (β: -1.1114; 95% CI: -1.2178, -1.0050; β: -0.7116; 95% CI: -0.7856, -0.6375), reduced total motility (-2.7613; -3.1109, -2.4118; -1.7766; -2.0196, -1.5337), and increased sperm concentration (0.0168; 0.0102, 0.0234; 0.0091; 0.0045, 0.0137). In addition, during all key periods, we observed that PM2.5 and PM10 showed negative correlations with progressive motility and total motility (all P<0.05). Also, similar results were observed in the normal semen group and the abnormal semen group. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that PM exposure may have a negative effect on sperm progressive motility and total motility, but it may have a positive effect on sperm concentration.

Collecting semen samples at home for IVF/ICSI does not negatively affect the outcome of the fresh cycle

Research questionDoes the site of semen collection influence IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle outcome? DesignRetrospective study performed at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, including all stimulated and modified natural IVF/ICSI cycles (with at least one oocyte retrieved) performed in 2019 with fresh ejaculated semen samples. IVF/ICSI cycle outcomes, in terms of oocytes, embryos and pregnancy rates according to site of semen sample collection (at home or at clinic) were evaluated. ResultsSamples collected at clinic had significantly lower sperm concentration (median [interquartile range, IQR], 50 [20–100] million/ml versus 70 [30–100] million/ml, adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.574 × 10–6 to 0.196, P = 0.012) and motility (60 [50–70]% versus 70 [50–70]%, adjusted OR 0.034, 95% CI 0.002 to 0.563, P = 0.018, adjusted for age). There was no difference in total sperm count, semen volume or sperm morphology, or women's age (36 [32–39] versus 36 [33–39] years) and men's age (37 [34–41] versus 38 [34–42] years), between semen samples collected at clinic versus at home. When all IVF/ICSI cycles were analysed together using generalized estimating equation analysis, no significant difference in cycle outcomes attributed to site of semen sample collection was observed. There were also no significant differences in cycle outcomes when only first cycles were analysed. ConclusionsCollecting semen samples at home has a positive effect on sperm quality (sperm concentration and motility were higher), but no significant differences in cycle outcomes are observed when these samples are used in IVF/ICSI cycles. Therefore, it is suggested that collecting semen samples at home for IVF/ICSI procedures is safe and has no negative effect on treatment outcomes.

Use of Personal Care Products and Semen Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study in Young Danish Men.

Personal care products (PCPs) may contain multiple chemicals capable of harming male reproductive function. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess aggregated PCP exposure and potential associations with measures of semen quality in young men. Participants (n = 1058, age 18–21) were sampled among young men from the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC). Upon recruitment in 2017–2019, each man answered an online questionnaire and provided a semen sample. Exposure to 12 common types of PCPs was derived from the questionnaire, and the extent of use and co-use was analyzed. We applied a negative binomial regression model to estimate percentage differences in semen parameters between low, medium and high PCP exposure groups. All participants were exposed to at least one PCP more than once a week, resulting in a mean number (SD) of 5.3 (2.0) PCPs currently used. Most participants (92%) were also exposed to fragranced products on a weekly basis. Little association was observed between aggregated exposure to PCPs and sperm concentration, total sperm count, semen volume, sperm motility and morphology. Despite prevalent use of multiple PCPs, we found little indication of adverse effects of aggregated overall or fragranced PCP exposure on semen quality.

Semen quality and fertility rates in Taipei city

Background: Although female factors are the major focus of attention for infertility, male factors are responsible for approximately 40% of infertility problems. Aims: The aim of this study is to investigate male infertility in Taiwan, establish a database of semen quality, and explore associations between semen quality and infertility. Methods: Results of semen tests of males who were examined at Zhongxiao Branch, Taipei City Hospital, between January 2008 and July 2015 were collected and analyzed retrospectively. All examination procedures and processing of human semen were performed according to the World Health Organization laboratory manual. Total semen volume and the concentration, motility, and morphology of sperm were evaluated and recorded. Pearson's correlation was used to explore associations between age and all semen parameters. Results: Significant differences were found in sperm concentration between the examined years (P = 0.011). Bonferroni post hoc analysis showed that the sperm concentration in 2012 decreased significantly (P = 0.026) compared to data of 2014. Age was significantly associated with sperm motility and morphology (P

Processed meat intake in relation to semen quality indicators among men attending a fertility clinic

AbstractIt is estimated that in Central and Eastern Europe 8–12% of men are infertile, and in the case of 20% of infertile couples in the region, indicates a 56% part of the malefactor in the occurrence of infertility. Numerous studies have shown that a healthy diet with a high intake of fish and seafood, poultry, vegetables, fruits, legumes, through the high content of antioxidants are associated with better parameters of semen quality and reduced risk of asthenozoospermia. Men's diets may affect spermatogenesis as reflected in semen quality indicators, but the literature on the relation between meat intake and semen quality is limited. Our objective was to prospectively examine the relation between meats including red, poultry, proceesed and fish and indicators of semen quality. Men in subfertile couples presenting for evaluation at the Olsztyn Hospital Fertility Center were invited to participate in an ongoing study of environmental factors and fertility. This cross-sectional study was carried out in 208 men aged 18–55 years from Northern-Eastern Poland. Semen samples were collected at the clinic and analyses were performed by an experienced technician. Semen microscopic measurements were determined with the use of computer-aided semen analysis (CASA) and evaluated according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. A total of men completed a validated food-frequency questionnaire and subsequently provided semen samples. We used linear mixed regression models to examine the relation between meat intake and semen quality indicators (total sperm count, sperm concentration, progressive motility, morphology, and semen volume) while adjusting for potential confounders. After adjustment for age, BMI, physical activity, residence place and education, one serving increase in intake of processed meat was associated with a 56% higher risk of abnormal progressive sperm motility (OR = 1.56 95%CI:1.09–2.21). Consuming processed meat may have a negative impact on sperm counts and morphology. Potentially, these products may be a significant source of saturated and trans fatty acids, xenobiotics, mainly xenoestrogen, and steroids. Is need to clarify the potential effect of meat products, especially processed meat, on male reproductive potential in RCTs or longitudinal studies. Future findings may be useful to establish a more precise recommendation connected with red and processed meat intake in the context of reproductive health.

Características andrológicas e seminais de cães da raça Pastor Belga Malinois

A realização do exame andrológico em cães, prévio à sua seleção e/ou utilização em um esquema de reprodução natural ou artificial é de grande importância, e é composto pela anamnese, exame clínico geral, exame do sistema reprodutivo, exame da libido, exame do sêmen e exames complementares, se necessário. No presente estudo, foram avaliados 11 cães adultos da raça Pastor Belga Malinois, com a finalidade de padronizar as características seminais e andrológicas da raça em questão, já que há grande variação das características entre as múltiplas raças de cães de diferentes portes, e escassa literatura sobre raças específicas. Como resultado, a avaliação dos testículos revelou o tamanho médio do testículo direito de 2,7±0,44cm de largura, 2,73±0,40cm de espessura e 4,44±0,44cm de comprimento, e do esquerdo de 2,60±0,26cm de largura, 2,84±0,34cm de espessura e 4,48±0,51cm de comprimento. Os animais apresentaram uma média de 88% de movimento retilíneo e progressivo, 4,6 de vigor e 9,55% de espermatozoides anormais. Todavia, em relação ao volume do ejaculado e à concentração espermática houve uma grande variação entre os animais, 5 cães apresentaram valores de concentração abaixo de 100x106 sptz/ml, enquanto os demais se situaram acima deste valor. Conclui-se que a concentração espermática e o volume total do sêmen apresentaram variação, devido à variação do volume da secreção prostática, que foi maior principalmente em animais com mais de 5 anos com Hiperplasia Prostática Benigna, os demais parâmetros espermáticos estão de acordo com os padrões da espécie canina.

Is low body mass index a risk factor for semen quality? A PRISMA-compliant meta-analysis.

Background:Male infertility has become a worldwide public health problem. However, the effect of low body mass index (BMI) is still controversial.Methods:Relevant articles in Pubmed, Embase, Web of science, and Wanfang database published until September 2017 were searched without language restriction. We performed a meta-analysis about low BMI and semen parameters containing total sperm count, concentration, semen volume, and sperm motility (overall and progressive), including 709 men with low BMI and 14,622 men with normal BMI.Results:Thirteen studies were included in this meta-analysis and a total of 15,331 individuals were accumulated. We pooled data from these articles and found standardized weighted mean differences in semen parameters (total sperm count and semen volume) showed significant difference between low BMI and normal BMI.Conclusions:This systematic review with meta-analysis has confirmed that there was a relationship between low BMI and semen quality, which suggesting low BMI may be a harmful factor of male infertility. Yet lacking of the raw data may influence the accuracy of the results. Further researches are needed to identify the role of underweight in male sterility.