The worldwide prevalence of obesity is increasing among both sexes, with associated impacts on chronic health and medical comorbidities. Similarly, the effects of obesity on reproductive health are increasingly being recognized. Adiposity is associated with reduced fertility in men, with a complex and multifactorial etiology. The reported effects of obesity on semen parameters and impaired fertility are contrasting, with some studies showing a clear reduction in reproductive outcomes associated with increased body mass index, while others do not show such impacts. These controversies may be due to the complex pathophysiology and interplay between gonadotropins and end organs, as well as genetic and epigenetic changes and oxidative stress on male fertility and function. These different aspects have led to heterogeneous participants in studies and varying implications for assisted reproductive outcomes as well as offspring health. Treatment modalities to manage obesity include lifestyle, medical, and surgical options, with emerging and effective medical treatments showing promise in reproductive outcomes.
Best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology. 2023 Aug 04 [Epub ahead of print]
Devini Ameratunga, Alpha Gebeh, Akwasi Amoako
Mayne Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia; Queensland Fertility Group (QFG), Brisbane, Australia., Department of Maternity and Gynecology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia; School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia., Mayne Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia. Electronic address: .