Probiotic therapy in couples with infertility: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Microbiome Research
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• The reproductive microbiome significantly influences fertility.
• Optimizing outcomes in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) involves managing bacterial vaginosis and disordered microbiomes.
• The role of probiotics in ART is not yet well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on probiotic therapy for assisted reproduction outcomes.
• To assess the impact of probiotics on clinical pregnancy rates and fertility parameters.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of multiple databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane) was conducted.
• Search terms included 'subfertility,' 'probiotic therapy,' 'clinical pregnancy rate,' and 'assisted reproductive outcomes.'
• Four eligible studies were identified from an initial search of 882 articles.

Main Results:

• One study showed a non-significant increase in clinical pregnancy rates with probiotics (48.0%-58.8%) and a higher miscarriage rate (30% vs 16.6%).
• Both studies involving oral probiotics for males demonstrated significantly improved sperm motility.
• Evidence on probiotic efficacy for women undergoing assisted reproduction remains conflicting.

Conclusions:

• Probiotic therapy may improve sperm motility in males undergoing fertility treatments.
• The efficacy of probiotic therapy for women in assisted reproduction requires further investigation.
• High-quality randomized controlled trials are necessary to establish the definitive benefits of probiotic therapy for couples undergoing assisted reproduction.