Early trials suggest COVID-19 vaccine has no impact on sperm

Early trials suggest COVID-19 vaccine has no impact on sperm

Another reassuring statement during this uncertain time: the President of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Dr Hugh Taylor, has released a statement that the COVID-19 vaccine does not impact the health or reproductive potential of sperm.

One of the reasons why people may hesitate to receive the COVID-19 vaccine is the potential negative impact it may have on fertility as reproductive toxicity was not initially evaluated during the early clinical trials.

A recent study released this month has assessed the sperm parameters before and after the mRNA vaccine administration and has shown that after two doses of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, there was no significant impact.

While these are preliminary findings and obviously there is much more to the COVID-19 virus we have yet to learn, the study’s timeframe includes the full lifecycle of the sperm and is a piece of reassuring news for patients looking to fall pregnant.

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FAQs about improving natural fertility

Will stress affect my ability to get pregnant?

Yes, chronic stress can impact fertility by disrupting hormonal balance and ovulation patterns. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices may help optimise your chances of conception. Consider speaking with a counsellor if stress feels overwhelming.

How does my partner's health affect our fertility?

Sperm health accounts for about 40% of conception challenges. Your partner can improve sperm health by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive heat exposure (hot tubs, saunas, tight clothing), limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress, and taking a multivitamin with antioxidants. Sperm takes about 3 months to develop, so lifestyle changes need time to show results.

When during my cycle am I most fertile?

Your fertile window typically spans 5-6 days, ending on ovulation day. For a regular 28-day cycle, this usually falls between days 10-15, with peak fertility 1-2 days before ovulation. Track your cycle using ovulation predictor kits, basal body temperature, or cervical mucus changes to identify your unique pattern. Having intercourse every 1-2 days during this window optimises your chances.