title: Nutritional supplementation and artificial reproductive technique (ART) outcomes.
abstract: Approximately one in six couples suffer from subfertility, and many seek treatment with artificial reproductive technologies (ART). Despite improvements in laboratory techniques and ovarian stimulation, ongoing pregnancy rates per cycle remain at ~25%. Couples wanting to improve their chances may turn to adjuvant therapies, such as nutritional supplements. There is growing evidence that periconceptional nutritional status is a key determinant of fertility and long-term health of the offspring, and a lucrative market has developed to meet the demand based on these benefits. However, the practice of routine dietary supplementation before and during IVF treatment has not been subject to well-powered prospective randomised trials. In this article, the potential roles of specific nutritional supplements in the context of improving IVF outcomes are reviewed and an assessment is made of the evidence base supporting their clinical use in this context. Finally, current research needs in the field are outlined.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Duthie Building (MP808), Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO16 6YD, UK.
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Kermack
authors.affiliation: Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD), University of Southampton, Mailpoint 887, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO16 6YD, UK. Complete Fertility Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Princess Anne Hospital, Coxford Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO16 5YA, UK. National Institute for Health Research, Southampton Biomedical Research Centre (in Nutrition), Southampton Centre for Biomedical Research, Southampton General Hospital, Mail Point 218, Tremona Road, Southampton, Hampshire SO16 6YD, UK.
authors.forename: N S
authors.initials: NS
authors.lastname: Macklon
mesh_terms: D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007246:Infertility / Q000628:therapy*; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011247:Pregnancy; D018873:Pregnancy Rate; D014815:Vitamins
chemical_list: D014815:Vitamins