Role of environmental factors & oxidative stress with respect to fertilization outcome.

Background & Objectives: Oxidative stress, lifestyle factors as also exposure to certain environmental factors are known to affect the fertility status in human beings. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of OS and lifestyle and environmental factors affecting IVF outcome.

Methods: A total of 253 couples were included, and biological samples such as blood, follicular fluid (FF), cumulus cells and semen were collected. Relevant biochemical parameters and metals namely lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were determined in the biological samples. β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels ≥100 IU/l were considered to predict viable pregnancy on the 15 day of embryo transfer (ET).

Results: The mean body mass index (BMI) was significantly lower in females with positive IVF outcome compared to those with negative outcome. Couples residing in the residential area showed more percentage of positive IVF outcomes as compared to couples residing in industrial/agricultural area. FF Zn level was significantly higher (P<0.001) among the females' participants who have undergone ET as compared to those who have not undergone ET. FF MDA and serum Cu levels were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the female participants with negative IVF outcome as compared to positive IVF outcome. Logistic regression revealed that maternal BMI (P=0.034) and FF MDA level (P=0.047) were significantly associated with the IVF outcome.

Interpretation & Conclusions: The success rate of IVF was about 31.8 per cent, and BMI was significantly lower in females with positive outcome. The higher levels of MDA in FF and SP might have a negative impact on IVF outcome, higher Zn level in SP, FF and serum might have a positive role in embryo transfer as well as IVF outcome. The role of stress management and nutrition supplementation during the IVF treatment may be explored.