Leukocytospermia and Bacteriospermia

Male genital tract infections account for roughly 15% of cases of male infertility. This can cause bacteriospermia and leukocytospermia. Leukocytospermia may be due to bacterial infections, as well as exposure to environmental pollutants, use of certain drugs, alcohol use, tobacco use, and use of vaginal products. Both bacteriospermia and leukocytospermia negatively affect fertility. It is hypothesized that spermatogenesis and semen function are all affected by direct bacterial interaction and involvement of immune capable cells. Leukocytospermia, which results from bacteriospermia or any other reason, can impair male fertility through a variety of processes, including interference with spermatogenesis, deterioration of sperm function, and genital tract dysfunction. However, the relevance of leukocytes in the semen and their relationship with semen quality is still debated. This chapter aims to investigate the relationship between bacteriospermia and leukocytospermia, their impact on male reproductive function and assisted reproductive techniques outcomes, the significance of leukocytospermia testing, the methodology of leukocytospermia testing, and the management of bacteriospermia/leukocytospermia.