The Detrimental Effects of COVID-19 on Human Reproduction

doi:10.12280/gjszjk.20220406

Abstract

Abstract:

The research related to the detrimental effect of COVID-19 has not been limited in the respiratory system, but it gradually expanded to other important systems. Several studies demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 recognized the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in human tissues and organs, thereby causing damages to the structure and function of human systems including reproduction. For male reproductive system, SARS-CoV-2 affects the function of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis, damages the spermatogenic process and decreases sperm quality. For female reproductive system, SARS-CoV-2 also disturbes the function of HPG axis. Considering the pregnant women infected with the virus, the rate of severe diseases was low and the rehabilitation was good, but adverse pregnancy outcomes may also occur. The impact of SARS-CoV-2 on assisted-reproduction is mild, but it could be a risk factor of pulmonary and renal complications when the patient suffered from ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome during ovulation induction. In addition, there is no evidence to show the obvious negative effect of various SARS-CoV-2 vaccines on the reproductive system. However, mental health problems such as the decreased fertility intention caused by the COVID-19 pandemic still need to be further investigated.

Key words: Coronavirus, Infection, Pneumonia, Urogenital system, Reproductive techniques, assisted, Vaccines

MAO Xin-yi, XU Yu-wei, LI Wen-jing, MA Zhuo-yao, DING Zhi-de. The Detrimental Effects of COVID-19 on Human Reproduction[J]. Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning, 2022, 41(6): 476-481.

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