After taking selenium or N-acetyl-cysteine for 6 months, men with certain types of infertility have lower levels of a hormone called FSH but higher levels of testosterone and inhibin B, which are important for sperm production.

Pro

Against

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

Community contributions welcome

Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human

2009 Feb

Contradicting (0)

Community contributions welcome

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study.

Score: 68

DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2008.10.015

Similar Assertions

The benefits of selenium and N-acetyl-cysteine on sperm quality for men with certain types of infertility only last while they're taking the supplements, and may go away after stopping.

81%

In men with certain types of infertility, higher levels of selenium and N-acetyl-cysteine in semen are strongly linked to better sperm quality, including more sperm, better movement, and better shape.

80%

Taking selenium or N-acetyl-cysteine for 6 months doesn't have enough data to know if it's safe long-term for men with certain types of infertility.

78%

Taking selenium or N-acetyl-cysteine for 6 months doesn't seem to help men with certain types of infertility have babies, even though it improves sperm quality.

77%

In men with certain types of infertility, the total amount of selenium and N-acetyl-cysteine in semen is strongly linked to better sperm quality, including more sperm, better movement, and better shape.

77%