Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that causes the accumulation of thick mucus in organs that can prevent or damage their function. CF usually affects the lungs, but it can also cause cysts and scars appear on the pancreas, liver, bays, intestines and reproductive organs. Complications of CF can include infections, malnutrition, diabetes, bone weakness and reproductive health problems. Men with CF can fight with fertility due to the absence of Vas Deferens, also known as a related bilateral absence of Vas Deferens (CBAVD). Vas Deferens are organs that resemble semen from the testicles to the ejaculation conductor. CF may also affect the production of testicular testosterone or hypogonadismwhich can be found in up to 45% of men with c.
Effect on testosterone
Male hypogonadism occurs when the body does not produce enough testosterone. This can happen when the fetal development before adolescence or adulthood. Depending on the development stage, hypogonadism can cause a variety of points or symptoms. If hypogonadism develops during adulthood, it can cause reduced sexual movement (libido), reduced energy and contribute to depression. In addition, over time it can cause erectile dysfunction (ED), infertility or further weakness of muscles and bones. It is important, facing hypogonadism with Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) It can affect male fertility that is not always clear in available resources.
Effect on male fertility
Infertility affects almost 98% of men with the majority of cases of infertility CF is due to obstructive azospurate (a blockage that prevents sperm release in sperm) from CBAVD. However, simply because sperm does not exist in Ejaculate does not mean that fertility is not an option. With the involvement of a urologist with experience with epididy or testicular sperm and female special fertility extraction that can help in assisted reproductive technology, most men with CF can still become fathers. It is important to examine the test of both partners for the CF gene carriers when planning a family building.
Because young men with CF may also have hypogonadism or low testosterone, it is important to understand that the TRT can suppress sperm production within the testicles. Thus, for men with low testosterone who want fertility and paternity, working with a reproductive urologist can be beneficial. Starting exogenous testosterone (TRT) could make sperm take less successful and unintentionally make family programming more difficult. There are treatments that can help improve testosterone levels while maintaining sperm production or sperm can be frozen for future use before TRT begins.
Conclusion
Infertility is common to men with CF due to issues related to CBAVD and hypogonadism. Men may be able to collect sperm (through a process) for use with assisted reproduction technologies, such as Vitro fertilization as part of their reproductive journey. Hypogonadism can often be treated with testosterone replacement therapy, but it should only be pursued when fertility goals have been achieved. If you are infertile – especially with known testosterone deficiency – it may be useful to talk to a reproductive urologist.
Reports:
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Naz Khan, F., Mason, K., ROE, AH, & Tangpricha, V. (2021). CF and male health: sexual and reproductive health, hypogonadism and fertility. Journal of Clinical and Translation Endocrinology; 27100288.
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