COVID-19 and Female Fertility: An Observational Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study: Upholding Reproductive Rights...

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Infectious Diseases
• Infertility Research

Background:

• COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) is known to cause multi-organ damage.
• The pandemic's impact on female reproductive health and fertility treatments remains an area of active investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on key reproductive health markers in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART).
• To assess changes in plasma levels of FSH, LH, estradiol, AMH, and antral follicular count (AFC) post-COVID-19 infection.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, prospective, observational study involving 203 infertile women (aged 24-43) with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Exclusion criteria included symptomatic infections, HIV, viral hepatitis, ovarian cancer history, or gonadotoxic drug use.
• Measurements of FSH, LH, estradiol, AMH, and AFC were taken before and after COVID-19 infection.

Main Results:

• A significant average decrease of 27.4% in anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels was observed post-infection (1.33 to 0.97 ng/mL).
• The average antral follicular count (AFC) decreased by 1 follicle post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Average FSH and LH levels increased by 13.6% and 13.4% respectively, while estradiol (E2) levels showed no significant variation.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection adversely affects female reproductive health, leading to diminished ovarian reserve markers (AMH, AFC) and hormonal imbalances (increased FSH, LH).
• The findings highlight the need for strategies to mitigate the impact of such infections on fertility and ART access.
• Further research and updated protocols are necessary to address the reproductive health challenges posed by pandemics.