Association Between the Microbiome and Female Infertility: A Narrative Review

Document Type : Systematic Review

Authors
S. Sadeghi 1
S. M. H. Navabian ghamsari 2
S. Azizian 3
A. Goodarzi 4
1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medicine Faculty, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2 Student Research Committee, Medicine Faculty, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
3 Interventional Cardiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
4 Department of Health Education and Promotion, Tarbiat Modarres University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Infertility in women is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including hormonal imbalances, infections, and lifestyle habits. Estrogen, a key hormone in female reproductive health, is pivotal in these processes. The microbiome, particularly Lactobacillus species, has been associated with improved outcomes in in vitro fertilization (IVF). Furthermore, alterations in both vaginal and gut microbiota can impact reproductive health and increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Recent research has highlighted the significant influence of gut microbes on behavioral, metabolic, and immune functions. This narrative review aims to explore the relationship between the microbiome and infertility in women. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase databases, focusing on full-text original research articles published in English from 2000 to 2024. The search terms included "microbiota," "microbiome," "fertility," and "infertility."Our findings suggest that the gut microbiome and its enzymatic activity, specifically β-glucuronidase, can influence estrogen levels, potentially leading to conditions characterized by estrogen excess or deficiency. Additionally, gut microbiota may contribute to endometriosis, pelvic pain, and infertility through hormonal imbalances. The genital microbiome, particularly the abundance of Lactobacillus species, has also been implicated in female infertility and protection against bacterial vaginosis. The presence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Gardnerella vaginalis, as well as a deficiency of Lactobacillus, has been linked to infertility

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Pathobiology Reserach
Volume 27, Issue 4
December 2024
Pages 23-31