Physical activity and semen quality parameters in adults

Abstract

Background: Male factor subfertility/infertility, defined as not being able to conceive within 12 months (Gnoth et al., 2005), and which may be diagnosed through semen analysis, is on the increase (Agarwal et al., 2020). Health science literature indicates that physical activity may enhance semen parameters, and thus fertility in males. Research Question: Does regular moderately intense physical activity enhance semen quality parameters in adults aged 18-55 when compared to a sedentary lifestyle? Pico Elements: Population – adult males (18-55years), Intervention – moderate intense physical activity, Comparison – sedentary lifestyle, Outcome – enhanced semen quality parameters - sperm concentration, sperm motility and sperm morphology. Method: A literature search conducted between July and September 2021, employing 17 databases, retrieved seven peer reviewed studies (1 RCT, 1 cohort study, 5 cross sectional studies), published in English between 2014-2021. These were critically appraised with the use of critical appraisal tools. Inclusion criteria were that participants had to be aged 18 – 55; studies must have measured liquified semen parameters within 60 minutes of ejaculation; total metabolic equivalents (hours per week) of physical activity, or something equal to, had to be reported; and the physical activity and/or sedentarism relationship had to be observed for a minimum of 3 months. Results and Conclusion: Sustained moderate intense physical activity does enhance semen parameters and male fertility, although it is not clear which parameters and to what extent these are enhanced. Therefore, further research is required to further clarify the latter. Implications and recommendations: More RCTs on how physical activity enhances semen should be conducted for a future meta-analysis to be made possible. Healthcare professionals should encourage males to be moderately-intense physically active to enhance their fertility. The local context in relation to the topic needs to be explored via research. Relevant authorities should create a policy regarding physical activity and how it enhances semen whilst facilitating opportunities for all individuals to be more physically active.