Effects of vaginal microbiota on in vitro fertilization outcomes in women with different infertility causes Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Female Infertility
Female Infertility
Female infertility is a multifactorial condition affecting 10-15% of women of reproductive age, often caused by underlying conditions like Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), PCOS, Endometriosis, and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs) offer a promising approach to restoring balance, improving fertility outcomes, and addressing root causes.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This study investigated the relationship between vaginal microbiota (VMB) composition and the outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in women with different causes of infertility. The researchers compared the VMB in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and tubal factor infertility (TFI) undergoing IVF with that of normal fertile women. The study specifically focused on the VMB structure before embryo transfer (ET) to determine its potential influence on IVF success.
Who was studied?
The study involved 120 women, including 83 infertile women (33 with PCOS and 50 with TFI) who underwent IVF and 37 fertile control women. The infertile group was divided into two subgroups based on IVF outcome: pregnant (PCOS.P and TFI.P) and non-pregnant (PCOS.NP and TFI.NP) women. Vaginal swabs were collected from all participants during the implantation window, 6-8 days after ovulation detection, to assess the VMB composition.
Most important findings
The study found significant differences in the vaginal microbiome between infertile women and fertile controls. Specifically, Lactobacillus iners was more abundant in the non-pregnant groups of both PCOS and TFI subgroups compared to the pregnant groups. The study also observed higher levels of Pseudomonas spp. in both non-pregnant groups, suggesting that this bacterial genus could negatively affect ART outcomes. Additionally, the VMB structure in infertile women was distinct from that of healthy women, with a reduced presence of Lactobacillus and an increased prevalence of pathogens like Prevotella, which are associated with reproductive issues such as spontaneous miscarriage and preterm birth.
Key implications
The findings underscore the potential of vaginal microbiota as a predictive factor for IVF outcomes. Specifically, the abundance of Lactobacillus iners and Pseudomonas spp. before embryo transfer might indicate a higher risk of IVF failure. This study highlights the importance of considering VMB composition when planning ART, suggesting that assessing the vaginal microbiota prior to embryo transfer could help optimize timing and personalize treatments based on infertility type. This approach could improve IVF success rates by addressing microbial imbalances that may hinder pregnancy.
Female Infertility
Female infertility is a multifactorial condition affecting 10-15% of women of reproductive age, often caused by underlying conditions like Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), PCOS, Endometriosis, and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs) offer a promising approach to restoring balance, improving fertility outcomes, and addressing root causes.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. It is often associated with metabolic dysfunctions and inflammation, leading to fertility issues and increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.