Effects of COVID-19 vaccination on human fertility: a post-pandemic literature review

Ann Med. 2023 Dec;55(2):2261964. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2261964. Epub 2023 Sep 27.

Abstract

Although vaccination with the Coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine is important and effective in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the public expressed concerns regarding the adverse effects of vaccine on fertility. Some reviews have focused on it, they have been unable to collect sufficient research data because of the earlier publication period. As relevant evidence has gradually increased, we reviewed these studies from the perspectives of males, females with or without pregnancy, and different vaccine types. The results suggest that although males may experience fluctuations in semen parameters within their physiological ranges after receiving the vaccine, it has not yet reached a level of influence on the partner's pregnancy probability. As to female without pregnancy, it is believed that vaccination will not affect fertility; however, more research is needed to explore the short-term impact. Vaccination during any trimester is considered safe in pregnant women.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; fertility; vaccine.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Vaccines* / adverse effects
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Fertility*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pandemics
  • Pregnancy
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccination / adverse effects

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the NHC key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (grant NHC-RMC-2021-2).