For couples in assisted reproduction programmes, concurrent male and female infection with human papillomavirus might be associated with a longer time to clinical pregnancy and a lower live birth rate.

Abstract

Introduction: We assessed in a prospective previous study the association between the human papillomavirus (HPV) status of infertile men and the presence of sperm abnormalities (oligospermia, asthenospermia, and/or teratospermia). However, few studies have reported on the impact of HPV infection on pregnancy rates and live birth rates.

Materials and methods: From May to October 2021, we prospectively collected clinical, laboratory, and infection-related data (including HPV status) from 461 men consulting for infertility. We subsequently collected the same data on the men's partners, to assess the impact of both male HPV infections and concurrent couple HPV infections on treatment outcomes. Pregnancy outcomes were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results: Seventy-eight couples were screened for HPV infection. The rate of spontaneous and medically assisted pregnancies was higher among couples with an HPV- male than among couples with an HPV+ male (58.7% vs. 37.5%; P=NS), as was the live birth rate (50% vs. 28%; P=NS). The spontaneous and medically assisted pregnancy rate was higher in HPV- couples than in HPV+ couples (60.5% vs. 37.1%; P=0.06), as was the live birth rate (51% vs. 28%; P=NS). However, time to clinical pregnancy was not significantly longer in HPV+ couples than HPV- couples (P=0.05).

Conclusion: Couples being assessed for infertility should be systematically screened for HPV. Concurrent HPV positivity appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of pregnancy and a lower birth rate.

Level of evidence: Level 2b.