sars-cov-2 and its implications for the human reproductive system: a review article

Context: the sars-cov-2 virus causes dysfunction of vital organs in the body. concerns about the destructive effect of sars-cov-2 on human reproductive tissues and fertility have increased. evaluation of the possible mechanisms by which sars-cov-2 causes infertility is essential for effective prevention and treatment. this review aims to assess the studies that have been conducted on sars-cov-2 impacts on the human reproductive system. evidence acquisition: this review study investigated articles indexed in pubmed, science-direct, scopus, and google scholar databases from 2019 to 2021. the keywords sars-cov-2, covid-19, human reproductive system, testis, and ovary were searched in the mentioned databases. results: the present study assessed the expression of sars-cov-2-specific receptors, the presence of the virus in the human reproductive system, and the mechanisms by which this virus can affect human fertility. conclusions: sars-cov-2, like other viruses, may indirectly influence the male reproductive system through cytokine storms, inflammation-causing oxidative stress, and its possible complications. the direct effects of sars-cov-2 on the male reproductive system are also reported. the testis may be a potential target for the sars-cov-2 virus. the impact of the sars-cov-2 virus on women's reproductive performance is unknown and requires further investigation.