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Mowla, S., Farahani, L., Tharakan, T., Davies, R., Correia, G.D., Lee, Y.S., et al. (2025) Characterisation and Comparison of Semen Microbiota and Bacterial Load in Men with Infertility, Recurrent Miscarriage, or Proven Fertility. eLife, 13, RP96090.
https://doi.org/10.7554/elife.96090.4

has been cited by the following article:

• TITLE: The Ability to Hold Sperm at Room Temperature Appears Rate-Limited by the Sample’s Native Bacterial Load

  AUTHORS: Nick Cochran, Pia Schilling, Lindsay Penrose, Samuel Prien

  KEYWORDS: Sperm, Bacteria, Time-Delay, Motility, Collection Device

  JOURNAL NAME: Advances in Reproductive Sciences, Vol.14 No.2, May 8, 2026

  ABSTRACT: Infertility treatment is an ever-evolving field driven by both scientific advances and patient expectations. Unlike previous generations, modern patients increasingly seek autonomy and flexibility in their care. Although standard semen analysis remains the cornerstone of male infertility assessment, the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified patient demand for greater flexibility in the timing and location of semen collection. This study explores a potential limitation of that convenience, namely the presence of bacteria within the male reproductive tract. Our preliminary findings suggest a direct correlation between intrinsic bacterial load and the ability of semen to maintain motility over extended periods at room temperature. This relationship is particularly relevant in the context of sample transport, where delays, such as those incurred during shipping to referral laboratories, may impact the accuracy of semen analysis results.