Seasonal Variation in Semen Quality in Sub-Sahara Africa

Abstract

Semen analysis is the cornerstone for the investigation of male infertility. Semen quality can be influenced by geographical location,
age, ejaculatory abstinence, and season. While studies evaluating seasonal variations in semen analysis parameters are conflicting,
limited data are available for men residing in sub-Saharan African countries. Therefore, the current cohort study was designed to
retrospectively analysing the effects of seasonal changes on semen parameters. Semen analysis reports (n=70,765) were collected
from records of fertile and infertile men residing in sub-Saharan African countries. Semen parameters such as pH, volume, sperm
concentration, total sperm count, progressive motility, sperm morphology normed sORP were collected for the purpose of the study.
A seasonal change in semen parameters of men residing in sub-Sahara Africa was found, with sperm concentration and total sperm
count higher in winter compared to summer and autumn. The lowest sperm concentration was found in summer. Semen parameters
of men residing in sub-Saharan African countries showed seasonal variations. Consequently, seasonal shifts should be considered
in the management of infertile patients in sub-Saharan African countries.