Fertility Preservation in the Time of COVID-19

Abstract

Background. Fertility preservation has always been an important part of reproductive medicine. It has acquired a new dimension in the current period of the Coronavirus crisis. Objective. To review published data about the possible effects of COVID-19 on human reproductive function and propose possible solutions to be used when fertility of affected people is worsening. Methods. Search of scientific literature. Findings. The effects of COVID-19 on affected people’s reproductive function in the medium and long term cannot be predicted with certainty. Fertility may also be affected by some treatment agents used against COVID-19. Fertility preservation in vivo, suitable in young persons with no apparent fertility problems, can be made with the use of nontoxic and generally fertility-friendly agents, such as melatonin and vitamin D. For older persons and those with already present fertility problems, in vitro fertility preservation, using gamete or embryo freezing, appears preferable. Finally, the same nontoxic agents recommended for in vivo fertility preservation should be given systematically to all pregnant women to protect them against infection during this critical period of life. Conclusion. Markers of reproductive function integrity should be evaluated in all people of reproductive age affected by COVID-19. According to the evolution of their values, and taking into account the overall condition of each patient, appropriate fertility preservation methods have to be chosen.