Bariatric surgery may lead to lower fertility rates among men

Men who have gone through bariatric surgery may be at increased risk of sperm aberrations

Bariatric surgery leads to weight loss, improved androgen levels and better sexual quality of life, but may also result in a reduced fertility rate.



The potential impact of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on male reproductive capability was discussed by researchers. Men who have gone through bariatric surgery may be at an increased risk of sperm aberrations lower fertility rates.

A previous study suggested that weight loss through bariatric surgery can prevent premature aging.

The latest research compared the long-term effects of weight loss after RYGB intake among a group of sexually active men trying to conceive with a partner to the semen parameters and fertility of obese men who did not go through the surgical procedure, and to a control group of lean men. Among the RYGB group, the researchers discovered higher levels of estrogen hormone estradiol and deficient vitamin D, which could have a negative impact on semen and fertility.



“This study is an important piece in solving the puzzle of male infertility. The challenge is to see if correcting hormonal and micronutrient aberrations are enough to reverse male infertility,” says editor-in-chief Edward Lin from Emory University’s school of medicine in Atlanta. The research has been published in Bariatric Surgical Practice and Patient Care journal.

This story originally appeared on the Hindustan Times.