The benefits of erectile dysfunction drugs like Viagra may go beyond a firmly pitched tent, research has found.

A new meta-analysis out of China has concluded that erection aids called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors - which include drugs like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra - might also enhance sperm quality in men whose little swimmers could use a helpful nudge.

After analyzing the data from 11 studies including 1,317 men, researchers discovered that taking erectile dysfunction meds boosted the number of motile and normal-shaped sperm in men considered infertile due to low sperm counts. How effectively sperm move and how normally they are shaped both play a key role in their success during efforts to conceive a child.

The researchers also found that chronic administration of drugs like Viagra appeared to be more effective at improving sperm parameters than simply taking the pills as needed.

Curiously, the sperm-enhancing effects were only seen in men with poor quality sperm to begin with, not in men with healthy swimmers. 

Before you go popping Viagra like candy prior to your next baby-making session, however, know that more research needs to be done before these drugs can be recommended as a fertility aid.