Crohn Disease Linked to Poorer Semen Quality

Men with Crohn disease tend to have poorer semen quality than those with ulcerative colitis, according to a recent study. However, men on anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) treatment have improved progressive motility and sperm morphology compared with individuals not on anti-TNF therapy.

Little information exists on the association between fertility rates and medication safety in men with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
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In their case series study, the researchers evaluated men with IBD and compared them with participants in a control group. Semen was analyzed based on the recommendations of World Health Organization. Additionally, the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire was used to assess impact on male sexual function.

Results indicated that men with Crohn disease had lower sperm concentrations and lower seminal zinc levels compared with those who had ulcerative colitis. Crohn disease patients who were on anti-TNF treatment demonstrated better progressive motility and sperm morphology than those who were not. The researchers found no significant differences in sexual function between IBD patients and controls.

“Men with Crohn disease showed a trend toward poorer semen quality than those with ulcerative colitis,” the researchers concluded. “Treatment with anti-tumor necrosis factor drugs does not seem to be associated with poor sperm quality. In patients in clinical remission, male sexual function is not affected by IBD.”

—Christina Vogt

Reference:

Valer P, Algaba A, Santos D, et al. Evaluation of the quality of semen and sexual function in men with inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2017;23(7):1144-1153. doi:10.1097/MIB.0000000000001081.