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The COVID-19 pandemic shook a lot of factors that regulated the everyday life of people, and the reproductive health of those who were either willing to begin their families or expand their existing ones was especially affected by it. Being a reliable fertility partner, Mannat Fertility Centre tries to shed light on how COVID-19 affects male and female fertility, pregnancy, and outcomes of IVF.
Now, we can discuss what modern science and observations of professionals suggest about the connection between coronavirus and fertility.
Can COVID-19 Affect Female Fertility?
Currently, there is no definite indication that COVID-19 may have long-term impacts on female fertility. Nevertheless, there is a specific literature examining the short-term effect of the virus on the reproductive system.
- Menstrual Changes: Menstrual changes have been reported, including irregular periods following a COVID-19 infection or vaccination. This is usually short-lived and connected to immune reaction or stress, and not permanent hormonal impairment.
- Ovarian Function: The reserve of eggs (ovarian reserve) and production of hormones were not directly affected after mild to moderate COVID-19 infection.
- Inflammation and Stress: Extreme infections or long-lasting stress during a pandemic can have indirect impacts on ovulation and fertility.
Overall health and reduction of stress factors continue to be the priorities of women who attempt to conceive naturally or via IVF.
Does COVID-19 Affect Male Fertility?
The temporary effect of COVID-19 infection on male fertility is more evident with regard to moderate or severe cases.
- Sperm Quality: high temperature and inflammation during the infection may decrease the sperm count, motility and morphology up to several weeks.
- Testicular: In some cases, there is evidence of inflammation of the testicles after COVID-19, but this is usually mild and reversible.
- Hormonal Disruption: This can cause temporary changes in the testosterone levels, though they will, in most cases, revert to normal within a few months.
Notably, mild cases do not necessarily bear any or little long-term consequences on male fertility. Semen analysis is advisable in men who have had severe COVID-19 before conception planning.
COVID-19 Vaccination and Fertility
Whether the COVID-19 vaccine would be associated with fertility was one of the most popular questions during the pandemic.
The response is no.
- Several international studies reveal that COVID-19 vaccines have no effects on ovarian reserve, long-term menstruation and fertility.
- Vaccinated people have demonstrated similar IVF success levels to unvaccinated ones.
- Health practitioners and other experts highly advise vaccination during pregnancy or fertility procedures to minimise chances of severe infection and protect maternal health.
- Indeed, COVID-19 prevention can be fertility-friendly since it helps to avoid fever, inflammation, and early pregnancy complications.
Impact on Pregnancy
Pregnant women who conceive before or, indeed, after being infected with COVID-19 might have some questions regarding the outcome of the pregnancy.
- Minor infections usually do not have any impact on pregnancy.
- A severe COVID-19 during pregnancy can increase the risks of a premature birth or fetal complications, particularly during the third trimester.
- Such risks are reduced in vaccinated mothers who can even transfer protective antibodies to the infant.
As a pregnant or IVF woman, discuss with your physician the precautions of COVID, symptom checks, and whether you have gotten vaccinated.
What About IVF During COVID-19?
We have also taken stringent safety measures at Mannat Fertility Centre to carry on safe IVF care even during the pandemic.
Patients proceeding with IVF in the course of or after COVID-19 ought to:
- The treatment should begin at least 4-6 weeks after recovery
- Follow-up of hormone levels and fertility parameters after infection
- Manage the risk factors with the fertility expert on an individual level
