For years scientists have suspected human papillomavirus (HPV) could play a role in male infertility. Now, they’re getting closer to an answer.
Until recently, most research about HPV and infertility has been done on women. However, a new study shows certain strains of HPV do appear to play a role in male infertility.
Researchers found “high-risk” HPV strains are more common and can impact sperm quality. Those that are considered high risk are strains that have been linked to cancer.
The study found high-risk HPV appears to suppress key components of the immune system in the male genital tract. That could harm the body’s ability to clear HPV while also raising the risk of other infections that may also impact male fertility.
A review of 50 different studies done in 2020 found 21% of infertile men had HPV-positive semen. That study also found that even after accounting for female infertility, men with HPV in their semen had a three times greater chance of being infertile than those without the virus.
There are more than 200 known strains of HPV. A vaccine for it has been available since 2006 and the CDC recommends all boys and girls get it at 11 or 12 years old. The vaccine helps prevent nine of the riskiest HPV strains.
According to the CDC, people can still get the vaccine even if they’re older, though it’s usually not as helpful since many people get at least one form of HPV after becoming sexually active. Still, people up to 45 can discuss getting vaccinated with their doctors.
