The impact of human papilloma virus on human reproductive health and the effect on male infertility: An updated review

J Med Virol. 2023 Apr;95(4):e28697. doi: 10.1002/jmv.28697.

Abstract

It is believed that human papilloma virus infection (HPV), which is caused by the DNA virus, is the most prominent factor contributing to sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the world, with males having a prevalence rate of 3.5%-45% while that women are 2%-44%. Infertility is a rising problem on a global basis, affecting anywhere from 10% to 30% of couples who have reached reproductive age. This study aims to investigate the existing research on HPV, its connection to male infertility, and how it could be a helpful tool for medical professionals managing HPV in the context of reproductive health care. Infection with HPV has been identified as a risk factor for several spontaneous abortions; however, there is a lack of evidence on how HPV influences individuals undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) in terms of live births. The significance of the immune response to HPV-infected male reproductive system cells and its effect on embryos, as well as the oxidative stress generated by high-risk HPV DNA damage and genomic instability, is discussed in this review. Further, the association between male individuals infected with HPV and asthenozoospermia should provide a compelling case for vaccinating young people against HPV.

Keywords: HPV vaccine; Human papillomavirus; assisted reproductive technology; asthenozoospermia; infertility; sexually transmitted disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Female
  • Human Papillomavirus Viruses
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male*
  • Male
  • Papillomaviridae / genetics
  • Papillomavirus Infections* / complications
  • Papillomavirus Infections* / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Reproductive Health