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How can mumps-related orchitis lead to male infertility?

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Diagram showing the female reproductive system with labeled ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina, alongside hormone pathways and the process from ovulation to fertilization and early embryo development. — infertility Major structures and hormones involved in the initiation of pregnancy. Also seen, at right, is the development of an egg cell (ovum) from follicle to embryo.

Mumps-related orchitis can lead to male infertility by causing inflammation and swelling of the testes, which are responsible for producing sperm. While mumps-induced orchitis typically resolves spontaneously without permanent damage, it can occasionally result in testicular atrophy.12

In rare instances where the infection involves both testes, the resulting damage can lead to hypogonadism, a condition characterized by decreased testicular function, testosterone deficiency, and impaired spermatogenesis, which ultimately causes infertility. Although sterility from this cause is considered uncommon, the inflammation can disrupt the normal function of the glands, potentially leading to both impotence and sterility in severe, bilateral cases.132