Back ground:the prevalence of female infertility ranges from 7% to 28% depending on the age of the woman,
however ovulatory disorder can be seen in fifths of infertile women. In a healthy body, ROS (Reactive Oxygen
Species) and antioxidants remain in balance, when the balance is disrupted towards an overabundance of ROS;
Oxidative stress (OS) occurs. Oxidative stress markers have been localized in follicular fluid of subfertile
women undergoing assisted reproduction, Low intrafollicular oxygenation has been associated with decreased
oocyte developmental potential. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is required for the synthesis of collagen, for the
synthesis of steroid and peptide hormones, and it protects tissues from oxidative damage. There is an
abundance of ascorbic acid in the ovary, which is consistent with its known roles in hormone synthesis and
synergism with neurotransmitters in stimulating hormone secretion.
Objective: The aim of our study is to evaluate the role of Vitamin C in the treatment of female infertility, with
outcomes measured by total number of follicles, follicular size, endometrial thickness, and pregnancy outcome.
Method: Randomized, controlled, group- comparative study by taking two groups and observe them to study
the effect of adding vitamin C on infertility treatment of half of them.50 women on induction of ovulation
prepared for (IUI) with no vitamin C in their treatment and (50 women) prepared for (IUI) with vitamin C of
500-1000mg daily in their treatment and follow up them by serial ultrasound measurement for number of
ovarianfollicles , follicular diameter and endometrial thickness and pregnancy outcome.
Result: Follicular diameters, follicular numbers, endometrial thickness at day 10 of cycle, and pregnancy rate
in group receiving vitamin C were all higher than group that who are not taking vitamin C.
Conclusion: Vitamin C has a role in female reproduction as it can improve the number, diameter of follicles,
endometrial thickness and thereby pregnancy outcome. |