The impact of Chlamydia infection on semen parameters and male fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background and objective: There has been no consensus regarding whether Chlamydia impacts on males’ reproductive function. This systematic review and meta-analysis compared semen parameters of Chlamydia (+) males with Chlamydia (-) males. Method The databases MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed were searched for relevant studies. Results Sixteen studies were included with more than 3000 patients. Chlamydia infection negatively impacted on sperm concentration (DM -3.33, 95% CI: -6.54 to -0.12; P = 0.04; I² = 30%) and progressive motility (DM -1.62, 95% CI: -3.04 to -0.20; P = 0.03; I² = 14%) in infertile males. Semen volume, sperm normal morphology, sperm vitality and semen pH may not be associated with Chlamydia infection in infertile males. Chlamydia infection may influence semen volume with combining with region factor (DM -0.87, 95% CI: -1.29 to -0.44; P < 0.0001; I² = 33%). Discussion and conclusions: Chlamydia infection deteriorates infertile males’ reproductive function. These finds induce us to consider Chlamydia’s contribution to males’ reproductive dysfunction, and the treatment of Chlamydia whether protect males’ reproductive function should be studied in the future.