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.