The Effect of COVID-19 Infection on Male Fertility: A Narrative Review

Abstract

The emergence of a new coronavirus, officially referred to as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 ), has challenged all healthcare workers and clinicians worldwide. The presence of the virus in biological fluids including the semen has raised some concerns about infertility treatment. There is evidence that SARS-CoV-2, which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), can damage the male reproductive system following the inflammatory process caused by the cytokine storm. However, the direct and long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on fertility and the reproductive capacity of the human testis are still open to controversy. The lasting presence of the virus, even after a complete recovery, can increase the risk of sexual transmission and adversely affect the male reproductive system, sexual function, and fertility. Therefore, there is a need for a careful assessment of reproductive organs and testicular function in male patients. This study aimed to evaluate the invasive effect of SARS-CoV-2 on the testis and male reproduction.