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Review
. 2023 Jul 26;12(8):1490.
doi: 10.3390/antiox12081490.

The Silent Threat to Women's Fertility: Uncovering the Devastating Effects of Oxidative Stress

Aris Kaltsas  1 , Athanasios Zikopoulos  1 , Efthalia Moustakli  2 , Athanasios Zachariou  1 , Georgia Tsirka  2 , Chara Tsiampali  3 , Natalia Palapela  4 , Nikolaos Sofikitis  1 , Fotios Dimitriadis  5
Affiliations
Review

The Silent Threat to Women's Fertility: Uncovering the Devastating Effects of Oxidative Stress

Aris Kaltsas et al. Antioxidants (Basel). .

Abstract

Oxidative stress (OS), which arises through an imbalance between the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, plays a key role in the pathophysiology of female infertility, with the latter constituting just one of a number of diseases linked to OS as a potential cause. The aim of the present article is to review the literature regarding the association between OS and female infertility. Among the reproductive diseases considered are endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while environmental pollutants, lifestyle variables, and underlying medical conditions possibly resulting in OS are additionally examined. Current evidence points to OS likely contributing to the pathophysiology of the above reproductive disorders, with the amount of damage done by OS being influenced by such variables as duration and severity of exposure and the individual's age and genetic predisposition. Also discussed are the processes via which OS may affect female fertility, these including DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. Finally, the last section of the manuscript contains an evaluation of treatment options, including antioxidants and lifestyle modification, capable of minimizing OS in infertile women. The prime message underlined by this review is the importance of considering OS in the diagnosis and treatment of female infertility. Further studies are, nevertheless required to identify the best treatment regimen and its ideal duration.

Keywords: antioxidants; diminished ovarian reserve; endometriosis; oxidative stress; polycystic ovary syndrome.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Impacts of Oxidative Stress on Female Fertility and Reproductive Health.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Antioxidants in Female Infertility Treatment.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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