The relationship between body mass index, semen and sex hormones in adult male

Abstract

This study was aimed at evaluating the relationship between body mass index, sex hormones and semen characteristics in male adults. 120 male adults aged 20 to 50 years who consented to participate in the study were used. Serum samples collected from each subject were analyzed for Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Prolactin (PRL), Progesterone, Estradiol and testosterone by classical ELISA method. Semen samples obtained by masturbation after 72 hours of abstinence were analyzed for sperm count and motility. The results showed statistically significant correlations at 99% confidence level between body mass index and serum concentrations of progesterone and oestradiol and sperm count. No significant correlations were observed between body mass index and sperm motility, serum concentrations of prolactin, testosterone and luteinizing hormone. In conclusion, this study has shown that statistically significant correlations exist between body mass index, semen characteristics and male sex hormones and may broaden our understanding of the physiology of male fertility/infertility.

Keywords: Body mass index, Semen quality, Male sex hormones, Fertility/infertility

Nig. J. Physiol. Sci. 26(June 2011) 029 – 034