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Antioxidants for male subfertility
Marian G Showell1, Julie Brown, Anusch Yazdani
1Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Park Road Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|January 21, 2011
Summary
Oral antioxidants significantly improved live birth and pregnancy rates in subfertile males undergoing assisted reproduction techniques (ART). Supplementation appears safe, but further research is needed to determine optimal antioxidant choices.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Male Infertility
- Oxidative Stress
Background:
- Male subfertility is often linked to oxidative stress damaging sperm, affecting 30-80% of cases.
- Oral antioxidant supplements may enhance sperm quality by mitigating oxidative stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of oral antioxidant supplementation for male partners in couples undergoing assisted reproduction techniques (ART).
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted.
- Searched multiple databases (e.g., Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE) up to February 2010.
- Included RCTs comparing antioxidant supplements versus placebo/no treatment in males undergoing fertility assistance.
Main Results:
- 34 trials with 2876 couples were included.
- Antioxidant use significantly increased live birth rates (OR 4.85) and pregnancy rates (OR 4.18) compared to controls.
- No adverse side effects were reported from antioxidant therapy.
Conclusions:
- Antioxidant supplementation in subfertile males shows promise for improving live birth and pregnancy rates in ART cycles.
- Further comparative studies are required to identify the most effective antioxidant.
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