Vancouver fertility doctor says COVID vaccines safe

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — A fertility clinic in Vancouver is trying to get the message out that the COVID-19 vaccine shots will not have negative effects on people’s sperm count after vaccination.

Dr. Gary Nakhuda, from the Olive Fertility Centre, says while he’s noticed a growing level of comfort with the vaccine doses, there is still some concern.

“I just think it’s just the fear of the unknown, which is certainly understandable.”

He says he’s hearing misconceptions about the negative effect of COVID vaccines on sperm count, so he’s trying to let people know that being infected by the virus will actually impact your sperm count negatively, not the vaccine.

Related Articles:

• Fraser Health relocates some vaccine clinics amid heatwave concern

• Vancouver families should still go on vacation, even if children aren’t vaccinated

“The risks of the COVID-19 infection are very serious. But, specific to fertility. it does appear that, at least in the short term, the virus could affect sperm counts.”

Nakhuda says one consequence of becoming infected with COVID-19 may be erectile dysfunction.

“There is evidence, or at least theorizing, that this [COVID-19 virus] could cause erectile dysfunction in men, because of the damage to the small blood vessels … Erectile dysfunction is dependent on good blood flow.”

He adds getting vaccinated might also save your life so he’s encouraging people get their shot.

“The evidence is actually very clear that it certainly doesn’t hurt it. I think hopefully [that] will reassure some patients.”