High altitude and human reproductive function

Abstract

Altitude has been reported to have significant effects on the metabolic, cardiovascular and ophthalmological and reproductive function due to prolonged exposure. However, the human body can adjust to acute and chronic reductions in its oxygen supply by increasing respiratory rate, chemical changes in the blood, and by increasing the production of red blood cells. In males, reproduction could be affected by hypoxia at different levels. This could be at hormonal level, during spermatogenesis with epidydimal, seminal vesicular and testicular weight could also be significantly reduced. Chronic state of hypoxia can alter erectile physiology, thus triggering the onset of erection dysfunction (ED). The reproduction in species that have adapted to conditions at high altitude is possible, making adaptation to high altitude vital for survival and for successful reproduction. This review highlight changes in reproductive function consequent to high altitude exposure.