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Bielfeld AP, Baston-Buest DM, Edimiris P, Kruessel JS. Effect of Waiting Period on Initial Adverse Vaginal Microbiome Composition in IVF-ICSI Patients. J Clin Med 2024; 13:5024. [PMID: 39274237 PMCID: PMC11396159 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13175024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In this observational prospective cohort study, conducted at the Fertility Centre of the University Hospital, Duesseldorf Germany, the spontaneous reversal capacity and the effect of waiting time on an adverse vaginal microbiome profile in subfertile patients were investigated. Methods: Vaginal swabs of 76 patients were obtained before starting a fertility treatment using a commercially available test to perform a microbiome analysis. Patients with a favorable microbiome profile ("medium" or "high profile") according to the manufacturer's algorithm proceeded with the fertility treatment. Patients with an unfavorable microbiome profile ("low profile") postponed their fertility treatment and were sampled up to four times in each successive cycle or until a shift to a more favorable profile was detected. Results: Initially, 54/76 subjects had a high or medium profile and 23/76 had a low profile. Within 3 months, 75% of patients with an initial low profile shifted to a more favorable profile (7/23 dropouts). The presence of Lactobacillus crispatus in the initial sample was associated with a higher likelihood of a spontaneous shift to a more favorable profile. Conclusions: The vaginal microbiome is subject to strong fluctuations. Even an unfavorable microbiome profile can develop into a favorable microbiome profile within a few months without treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Petra Bielfeld
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (UniKiD), University of Duesseldorf Medical Center, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Dunja Maria Baston-Buest
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (UniKiD), University of Duesseldorf Medical Center, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Philippos Edimiris
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (UniKiD), University of Duesseldorf Medical Center, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan-Steffen Kruessel
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (UniKiD), University of Duesseldorf Medical Center, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
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Tian Q, Jin S, Zhang G, Liu Y, Liu J, Tang X, Li Y, Liu J, Liu Y, Wang Z. Assessing vaginal microbiome through Vaginal Microecology Evaluation System as a predictor for in vitro fertilization outcomes: a retrospective study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1380187. [PMID: 39045277 PMCID: PMC11263289 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1380187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Vaginal Microecology Evaluation System (VMES) in assessing the dynamics of the vaginal microbiome (VM) throughout the process of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Furthermore, it seeks to explore the potential correlation between distinct types of VM ecology and the success rate of IVF-ET. Methods This study employed VMES to ascertain the composition of the VM. Data were collected from infertile women who underwent their initial IVF-ET treatment for tubal factor between January 2018 and December 2021. A retrospective analysis of pregnancy outcomes resulting from their fresh embryo transfer was conducted to determine the predictive significance of the vaginal microenvironment. Results We demonstrate that VMES is able to predict IVF-ET outcomes in patients diagnosed with Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Notably, a discernible shift in the VM was observed in a decent subset of patients following Controlled Ovarian Stimulation (COS), though this phenomenon was not universal across all participants. Specifically, there was a noteworthy increase in the proportion of patients exhibiting BV and uncharacterized dysbiosis subsequent to COS. Furthermore, our investigation revealed a significant correlation between VM and both the live birth rate and early miscarriage rate. Employing a multivariable logistic regression model, we identified that VM status pre-COS, VM status post-COS, patient age, and the number of embryos transferred emerged as independent predictors of the live birth rate. Conclusion Our study suggests that, during IVF-ET treatment, the VMES can effectively detect changes in the VM, which are strongly correlated with the pregnancy outcome of IVF-ET procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Tian
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Shengxi Jin
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Guangmin Zhang
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jianxin Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xiuming Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yufeng Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jiane Liu
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yifei Liu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
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Maksimovic Celicanin M, Haahr T, Humaidan P, Skafte-Holm A. Vaginal dysbiosis - the association with reproductive outcomes in IVF patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:155-164. [PMID: 38597377 PMCID: PMC11062609 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To examine impact of vaginal dysbiosis (VD), including bacterial vaginosis (BV) and aerobic vaginitis (AV) on reproductive outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients. RECENT FINDINGS BV-bacteria (e.g. Gardnerella ) and AV-bacteria (e.g. Streptococci and Enterococci ) have been identified in the endometrium. However, there is inconclusive evidence whether IVF patients with VD have lower success rates. SUMMARY The present systematic review and meta-analysis of PubMed/Medline, until December 2023 included 25 studies, involving 6835 IVF patients. Overall VD was defined as an approximation of community state type IV, including BV and AV-type dysbiosis based on either molecular or microscopy methods. Outcomes were live birth rate (LBR), early pregnancy loss (EPL), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), and biochemical pregnancy rate (BPR).Vaginal dysbiosis prevalence was 19% [1271/6835, 95% confidence interval (CI) 18-20%]. Six studies examined AV-type dysbiosis with a prevalence of 4% (26/628, 95% CI 3-6%). Vaginal dysbiosis correlates with a higher EPL [relative risk (RR) = 1.49, 95% CI 1.15-1.94] and lower CPR (RR = 0.82, 95% CI 0.70-0.95). No statistically significant impact of VD, BV, or AV was found on LBR and BPR.Thus, the association between VD and reproductive outcome remains puzzling as it is difficult to explain how VD impacts CPR and EPL but not LBR and BPR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thor Haahr
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital Skive, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital Skive, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Axel Skafte-Holm
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Research Unit for Reproductive Microbiology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Mongane J, Hendwa E, Sengeyi D, Kajibwami E, Kampara F, Chentwali S, Kalegamire C, Barhishindi I, Kujirakwinja Y, Maningo JB, Kasago B, Mulinganya G. Association between bacterial vaginosis, Chlamydia trachomatis infection and tubal factor infertility in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:480. [PMID: 38730346 PMCID: PMC11083818 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09379-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tubal factor infertility (TFI) is common in sub-Saharan Africa and often secondary to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Anaerobes associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) are also found in PIDs widely dominated by Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), whose role in TFI is better demonstrated than that of BV. OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of BV and C. trachomatis and to investigate the association between BV, C. trachomatis and TFI. METHODS We included 137 patients treated for infertility between January 2020 and November 2021. Cases were defined as women with infertility aged 18-45 years presenting with TFI (n = 52), and controls as infertile women in the same age groups without TFI (n = 85). Data on social habits, life style and infertility parameters were collected, and we performed screening for BV and C. trachomatis. Multiple regression was used to measure associations. RESULTS The prevalence of BV and C. trachomatis was 42.3% (58/137) and 23.4% (32/137), respectively. BV (61.5% vs 30.6%, p<0.001) and C. trachomatis (48.1 vs 8.2%, p<0.001) were more frequent in cases of TFI. BV and C. trachomatis increased the risk of TFI approximately 4-fold [aOR: 3.77 (1.61-8.83), p=0.002] and 14-fold [aOR: 13.77 (4.59-41.27), p<0.001], respectively. CONCLUSION BV and C. trachomatis infection are strongly associated with TFI in Bukavu. Prevention and screening should be implemented to reduce the risk of TFI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Mongane
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Erick Hendwa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Dieudonné Sengeyi
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Etienne Kajibwami
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Freddy Kampara
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Serge Chentwali
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Claude Kalegamire
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Isaac Barhishindi
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Yvette Kujirakwinja
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jeanne Beija Maningo
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Benjamin Kasago
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Guy Mulinganya
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Catholique de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Garg A, Ellis LB, Love RL, Grewal K, Bowden S, Bennett PR, Kyrgiou M. Vaginal microbiome in obesity and its impact on reproduction. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 90:102365. [PMID: 37399714 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
A number of reproductive outcomes have been increasingly found to be affected by the vaginal microbiota. Obesity has become a global epidemic, affecting increasing numbers of reproductive-age women, and has been shown to be a risk factor for a number of adverse female health outcomes. A healthy vaginal microbiome is characterized by Lactobacillus-dominance, in particular Lactobacillus crispatus; obesity has been found to be associated with higher diversity and a lower likelihood of Lactobacillus-dominance. In this review, we summarize the evidence on the vaginal microbiome in obese women and the impact on reproductive outcomes such as conception rates, early pregnancy, and preterm birth. We further explore the mechanisms by which obesity may result in an altered microbial composition and highlight future avenues for therapeutic targeting of the vaginal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Garg
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Laura Burney Ellis
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ryan Laurence Love
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Karen Grewal
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Bowden
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK
| | - Maria Kyrgiou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
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Genital Microbiota and Outcome of Assisted Reproductive Treatment-A Systematic Review. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12111867. [PMID: 36431002 PMCID: PMC9693990 DOI: 10.3390/life12111867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The balance between different bacterial species is essential for optimal vaginal health. Microbiome includes the host genome along with microorganism genomes and incorporates the biotic and abiotic factors, reflecting the habitat as a whole. A significant difference exists in the composition and number of the human microbiota in healthy individuals. About one-tenth of the total body microbiota exists in the urogenital tract and these can be identified by microscopy and culture-based methods, quantitative PCR, next generation and whole genome sequencing. The trend of delaying the planning of pregnancy to a later age nowadays has resulted in magnifying the use of assisted reproductive treatment (ART). Hence, genital microbiota and its impact on fertility has generated immense interest in recent years. In this systematic review, we searched the available evidence on the microbiota of the genital tract in women undergoing ART and studied the outcomes of IVF in different microbial compositions. Despite the inconsistency of the studies, it is evident that vaginal, cervical and endometrial microbiota might play a role in predicting ART outcomes. However, there is no clear evidence yet on whether the diversity, richness, quantity, or composition of species in the maternal genital tract significantly affects the outcomes in ARTs.
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Carbone L, Conforti A, La Marca A, Cariati F, Vallone R, Raffone A, Buonfantino C, Palese M, Mascia M, DI Girolamo R, Capuzzo M, Esteves SC, Alviggi C. The negative impact of most relevant infections on fertility and assisted reproduction technology. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2022; 74:83-106. [PMID: 34137567 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04870-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Infections may act with variable impact on the physiopathology of the reproductive organs, determining infertility or reducing the outcomes of assisted reproduction technology. The aim of this narrative review is to describe the existing evidence regarding the pathogens with a supposed or recognized role in reproductive medicine. Viral hepatitis, as well as HIV, can reduce sperm quality. Syphilis carries a risk of erectile dysfunction and increased endometrial thickness. Chlamydia is the main cause of pelvic inflammatory disease. In relation to Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma spp., only few species seem to show a correlation with infertility and poor in-vitro fertilization outcomes. There is evidence of a role for bacterial vaginosis in early pregnancy loss. HPV infection in males seems to determine infertility. Herpesviruses are more a risk for fetuses than for fertility itself. Zika virus is responsible for altered early embryo development and waiting to conceive is recommended in suspected or confirmed cases. The impact of SARS-CoV-2 is yet to be elucidated. Rubella and toxoplasmosis can provoke important congenital defects and therefore screening is mandatory before conception; a vaccine for Rubella is recommended. Further and well-designed studies are still needed to better elucidate the role of some infectious agents, to improve fertility and its treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy -
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Vallone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Raffone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Cira Buonfantino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Palese
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marika Mascia
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella DI Girolamo
- Center for High-Risk Pregnancy and Fetal Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Martina Capuzzo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- ANDROFERT - Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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The Role of Genital Tract Microbiome in Fertility: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010180. [PMID: 35008605 PMCID: PMC8745627 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human microbiome plays a crucial role in determining the health status of every human being, and the microbiome of the genital tract can affect the fertility potential before and during assisted reproductive treatments (ARTs). This review aims to identify and appraise studies investigating the correlation of genital microbiome to infertility. Publications up to February 2021 were identified by searching the electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Embase and bibliographies. Only full-text original research articles written in English were considered eligible for analysis, whereas reviews, editorials, opinions or letters, case studies, conference papers, and abstracts were excluded. Twenty-six articles were identified. The oldest studies adopted the exclusive culture-based technique, while in recent years PCR and RNA sequencing based on 16S rRNA were the most used technique. Regardless of the anatomical site under investigation, the Lactobacillus-dominated flora seems to play a pivotal role in determining fertility, and in particular Lactobacillus crispatus showed a central role. Nonetheless, the presence of pathogens in the genital tract, such as Chlamydia trachomatis, Gardnerella vaginalis, Ureaplasma species, and Gram-negative stains microorganism, affected fertility also in case of asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis (BV). We failed to identify descriptive or comparative studies regarding tubal microbiome. The microbiome of the genital tract plays a pivotal role in fertility, also in case of ARTs. The standardization of the sampling methods and investigations approaches is warranted to stratify the fertility potential and its subsequent treatment. Prospective tubal microbiome studies are warranted.
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Koedooder R, Maghdid DM, Beckers NGM, Schoenmakers S, Kok DJ, Laven JSE. Dynamics of the urinary microbiome in pregnancy and the coincidental predictive value of the microbiota for IVF/IVF-ICSI outcome. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:871-879. [PMID: 34656437 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the impact of clinical pregnancy on the composition of the urinary microbiota? DESIGN Eighty-five women receiving IVF, without or with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment were enrolled in a prospective observational study performed in 2008. Approximately 14 weeks before the start of hormonal treatment and embryo transfer, a midstream urine sample was obtained, followed by an additional sample 16 weeks after embryo transfer. The microbial composition was determined by polymerase chain reaction of the V1-V3 regions of the 16S rRNA bacterial gene. Clinical pregnancy data were collected after the first IVF/IVF-ICSI cycle and 1 year later. RESULTS A significant decrease in the abundance of Lactobacillus species as well as a significant increase in that of Staphylococcus species was observed in women who became pregnant after IVF/IVF-ICSI treatment (both P < 0.0001). In addition, based on the composition of the pretreatment microbiome it was possible to identify women with a lower likelihood of achieving clinical pregnancy after IVF/IVF-ICSI treatment. The resulting prediction model was validated in another 27 women who did not become pregnant during the first cycle and received additional IVF/IVF-ICSI cycle(s) or frozen embryo transfer(s). The model predicted the women with no clinical pregnancy after IVF/IVF-ICSI treatment with a sensitivity of 0.42 and a specificity of 1.00. CONCLUSIONS The data primarily showed that clinical pregnancy results in significant changes in the abundance and diversity of the urinary microbiota. Coincidentally, it was discovered that the urinary microbiome composition before IVF/IVF-ICSI treatment can potentially be used as a predictor of clinical pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rivka Koedooder
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Delshad M Maghdid
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole G M Beckers
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Present address: MC Kinderwens Leiderdorp, Viva Neo Medical Center, Leiderdorp, The Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Division Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dik J Kok
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Hao X, Li P, Wu S, Tan J. Association of the Cervical Microbiota With Pregnancy Outcome in a Subfertile Population Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: A Case-Control Study. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:654202. [PMID: 34631595 PMCID: PMC8495128 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.654202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The microorganisms of the reproductive tract have been implicated to affect in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. However, studies on the reproductive tract microbiota of infertile women are limited and the correlation between cervical microbiota and IVF outcome remains elusive. This study aimed to characterize the cervical microbiota of IVF patients undergoing embryo transfer (ET) and assess associations between the cervical microbiota and pregnancy outcomes while exploring the underlying contributing factors. We launched a nested case-control study of 100 patients with two fresh or frozen-thawed cleavage embryos transferred per IVF cycle. Cervical swabs were collected on the day of ET and divided into four groups according to clinical pregnancy outcomes. Variable regions 3 and 4 (V3-V4) of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified and sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. In fresh IVF-ET cycles, the clinical pregnancy group (FP, n = 25) demonstrated higher α diversity (P = 0.0078) than the non-pregnancy group (FN, n = 26). Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) revealed a significant difference in β diversity between the two groups (R = 0.242, P = 0.001). In frozen-thawed ET cycles, though not significant, similar higher α diversity was found in the clinical pregnancy group (TP, n = 27) compared to the non-pregnancy group (TN, n = 22) and ANOSIM analysis showed a significant difference between the two groups (R = 0.062, P = 0.045). For patients in fresh IVF-ET groups, Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, Desulfovibrio, Atopobium, and Gardnerella showed differentially abundance between pregnant and non-pregnant women and they accounted for the largest share of all taxa investigated. Among them, Lactobacillus was negatively correlated with the other genera and positively correlated with serum estradiol levels. Logistic regression analysis suggested that the composition of the cervical microbiota on the day of ET was associated with the clinical pregnancy in fresh IVF-ET cycles (P = 0.030). Our results indicate that cervical microbiota composition has an impact on the outcome of assisted reproductive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyao Hao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Pingping Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Disease and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
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11
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Karaer A, Doğan B, Günal S, Tuncay G, Arda Düz S, Ünver T, Tecellioğlu N. The vaginal microbiota composition of women undergoing assisted reproduction: a prospective cohort study. BJOG 2021; 128:2101-2109. [PMID: 34053157 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of vaginal microbiota on pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproduction. DESIGN A prospective cohort study. SETTING A university-based assisted reproductive technology (ART) centre. POPULATION 223 women undergoing ART treatment. METHODS Prior to embryo transfer, vaginal samples were collected from the posterior fornix. Vaginal microbiota identification was carried out using next-generation sequencing and categorised according to the V3-V4 hypervariable region in the 16S rRNA gene region. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES ART clinical outcomes (implantation, clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates). RESULTS The live birth rate in women with community state type (CST)-I (39%) was higher than that in women with CST-III (21.5%) but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.052). The relative abundance of Lactobacillus was lower in women who failed to become pregnant (NP group) (67.71%) than in women who became pregnant (PR group) (79.72%). However, this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.06). In the NP group, the relative abundance of Streptococcus (7.81%) and Gardnerella (9.40%) was higher than that in the PR group (relative abundance of Streptococcus and Gardnerella was 2.28% and 5.56%, respectively). The abundance of Streptococcus was found to be statistically significantly different between the two study groups (P = 0.014). Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) further validated that Streptococcus had the highest contribution (LDA score >4.0) to the difference between these two groups. CONCLUSIONS Streptococcus has the highest contribution to the distinction between the PR and NP groups. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT A relatively high abundance of Streptococcus in the vaginal microbiota may be associated with a lower ART success rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Karaer
- Reproductive Science & Advanced Bioinformatics Application & Research Centre, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - B Doğan
- Reproductive Science & Advanced Bioinformatics Application & Research Centre, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - S Günal
- Reproductive Science & Advanced Bioinformatics Application & Research Centre, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.,Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - G Tuncay
- Reproductive Science & Advanced Bioinformatics Application & Research Centre, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - S Arda Düz
- Reproductive Science & Advanced Bioinformatics Application & Research Centre, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - T Ünver
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - N Tecellioğlu
- Reproductive Science & Advanced Bioinformatics Application & Research Centre, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
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12
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The Association between Vaginal Dysbiosis and Reproductive Outcomes in Sub-Fertile Women Undergoing IVF-Treatment: A Systematic PRISMA Review and Meta-Analysis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030295. [PMID: 33806442 PMCID: PMC8001118 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in molecular microbiology have enabled refined studies of the genital tract microbiota. This constitutes the basis of the present updated systematic review and meta-analysis which investigate vaginal dysbiosis (VD) as defined by either microscopy (e.g., Nugent score for bacterial vaginosis) or molecular methods (qPCR and Next Generation Sequencing) to evaluate the impact of VD on the reproductive outcomes in women undergoing IVF-treatment. A total of 17 studies were included, comprising 3543 patients and with a VD prevalence of 18% (95%CI 17–19). Across all methods, VD is a significant risk factor for early pregnancy loss in IVF (Relative risk (RR) = 1.71 95%CI 1.29–2.27). Moreover, a predefined sub-analysis of studies using molecular methods for VD diagnosis showed a significant reduction in the clinical pregnancy rate when compared to normal vaginal microbiota patients (RR = 0.55 95%CI 0.32–0.93). However, regardless of diagnostic methodology, VD did not significantly influence live birth rate (LBR). In conclusion, molecular tools have provided a more detailed insight into the vaginal microbiota, which may be the reason for the increased adverse effect estimates in IVF patients with molecularly defined VD. However, the quality of evidence was very low across all outcomes according to GRADE and thus, more studies are warranted to understand the impact of VD in IVF.
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13
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Coscia A, Bardanzellu F, Caboni E, Fanos V, Peroni DG. When a Neonate Is Born, So Is a Microbiota. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11020148. [PMID: 33669262 PMCID: PMC7920069 DOI: 10.3390/life11020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the role of human microbiota as a short- and long-term health promoter and modulator has been affirmed and progressively strengthened. In the course of one’s life, each subject is colonized by a great number of bacteria, which constitute its specific and individual microbiota. Human bacterial colonization starts during fetal life, in opposition to the previous paradigm of the “sterile womb”. Placenta, amniotic fluid, cord blood and fetal tissues each have their own specific microbiota, influenced by maternal health and habits and having a decisive influence on pregnancy outcome and offspring outcome. The maternal microbiota, especially that colonizing the genital system, starts to influence the outcome of pregnancy already before conception, modulating fertility and the success rate of fertilization, even in the case of assisted reproduction techniques. During the perinatal period, neonatal microbiota seems influenced by delivery mode, drug administration and many other conditions. Special attention must be reserved for early neonatal nutrition, because breastfeeding allows the transmission of a specific and unique lactobiome able to modulate and positively affect the neonatal gut microbiota. Our narrative review aims to investigate the currently identified pre- and peri-natal factors influencing neonatal microbiota, before conception, during pregnancy, pre- and post-delivery, since the early microbiota influences the whole life of each subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Coscia
- Neonatology Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, Università degli Studi di Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - Flaminia Bardanzellu
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Elisa Caboni
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.)
| | - Diego Giampietro Peroni
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Department, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 55, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy;
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14
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Koedooder R, Singer M, Schoenmakers S, Savelkoul PHM, Morré SA, de Jonge JD, Poort L, Cuypers WJSS, Beckers NGM, Broekmans FJM, Cohlen BJ, den Hartog JE, Fleischer K, Lambalk CB, Smeenk JMJS, Budding AE, Laven JSE. The vaginal microbiome as a predictor for outcome of in vitro fertilization with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a prospective study. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1042-1054. [PMID: 31119299 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the presence or absence of certain vaginal bacteria associated with failure or success to become pregnant after an in vitro fertilization (IVF) or IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI) treatment? SUMMARY ANSWER Microbiome profiling with the use of interspace profiling (IS-pro) technique enables stratification of the chance of becoming pregnant prior to the start of an IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Live-birth rates for an IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment vary between 25 and 35% per cycle and it is difficult to predict who will or will not get pregnant after embryo transfer (ET). Recently, it was suggested that the composition of the vaginal microbiota prior to treatment might predict pregnancy outcome. Analysis of the vaginal microbiome prior to treatment might, therefore, offer an opportunity to improve the success rate of IVF or IVF-ICSI. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In a prospective cohort study, 303 women (age, 20-42 years) undergoing IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment in the Netherlands were included between June 2015 and March 2016. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Study subjects provided a vaginal sample before the start of the IVF or IVF-ICSI procedure. The vaginal microbiota composition was determined using the IS-pro technique. IS-pro is a eubacterial technique based on the detection and categorization of the length of the 16S-23S rRNA gene interspace region. Microbiome profiles were assigned to community state types based on the dominant bacterial species. The predictive accuracy of the microbiome profiles for IVF and IVF-ICSI outcome of fresh ET was evaluated by a combined prediction model based on a small number of bacterial species. From this cohort, a model was built to predict outcome of fertility treatment. This model was externally validated in a cohort of 50 women who were undergoing IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment between March 2018 and May 2018 in the Dutch division of the MVZ VivaNeo Kinderwunschzentrum Düsseldorf, Germany. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In total, the vaginal microbiota of 192 women who underwent a fresh ET could be analysed. Women with a low percentage of Lactobacillus in their vaginal sample were less likely to have a successful embryo implantation. The prediction model identified a subgroup of women (17.7%, n = 34) who had a low chance to become pregnant following fresh ET. This failure was correctly predicted in 32 out of 34 women based on the vaginal microbiota composition, resulting in a predictive accuracy of 94% (sensitivity, 26%; specificity, 97%). Additionally, the degree of dominance of Lactobacillus crispatus was an important factor in predicting pregnancy. Women who had a favourable profile as well as <60% L. crispatus had a high chance of pregnancy: more than half of these women (50 out of 95) became pregnant. In the external validation cohort, none of the women who had a negative prediction (low chance of pregnancy) became pregnant. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Because our study uses a well-defined study population, the results will be limited to the IVF or IVF-ICSI population. Whether these results can be extrapolated to the general population trying to achieve pregnancy without ART cannot be determined from these data. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results indicate that vaginal microbiome profiling using the IS-pro technique enables stratification of the chance of becoming pregnant prior to the start of an IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment. Knowledge of their vaginal microbiota may enable couples to make a more balanced decision regarding timing and continuation of their IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment cycles. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was financed by NGI Pre-Seed 2014-2016, RedMedTech Discovery Fund 2014-2017, STW Valorisation grant 1 2014-2015, STW Take-off early phase trajectory 2015-2016 and Eurostars VALBIOME grant (reference number: 8884). The employer of W.J.S.S.C. has in collaboration with ARTPred acquired a MIND subsidy to cover part of the costs of this collaboration project. The following grants are received but not used to finance this study: grants from Innovatie Prestatie Contract, MIT Haalbaarheid, other from Dutch R&D tax credit WBSO, RedMedTech Discovery Fund, (J.D.d.J.). Grants from Ferring (J.S.E.L., K.F., C.B.L. and J.M.J.S.S.), Merck Serono (K.F. and C.B.L.), Dutch Heart Foundation (J.S.E.L.), Metagenics Inc. (J.S.E.L.), GoodLife (K.F.), Guerbet (C.B.L.). R.K. is employed by ARTPred B.V. during her PhD at Erasmus Medical Centre (MC). S.A.M. has a 100% University appointment. I.S.P.H.M.S., S.A.M. and A.E.B. are co-owners of IS-Diagnostics Ltd. J.D.d.J. is co-owner of ARTPred B.V., from which he reports personal fees. P.H.M.S. reports non-financial support from ARTPred B.V. P.H.M.S., J.D.d.J. and A.E.B. have obtained patents `Microbial population analysis' (9506109) and `Microbial population analysis' (20170159108), both licenced to ARTPred B.V. J.D.d.J. and A.E.B. report patent applications `Method and kit for predicting the outcome of an assisted reproductive technology procedure' (392EPP0) and patent `Method and kit for altering the outcome of an assisted reproductive technology procedure' by ARTPred. W.J.S.S.C. received personal consultancy and educational fees from Goodlife Fertility B.V. J.S.E.L. reports personal consultancy fees from ARTPred B.V., Titus Health B.V., Danone, Euroscreen and Roche during the conduct of the study. J.S.E.L. and N.G.M.B. are co-applicants on an Erasmus MC patent (New method and kit for prediction success of in vitro fertilization) licenced to ARTPred B.V. F.J.M.B. reports personal fees from Advisory Board Ferring, Advisory Board Merck Serono, Advisory Board Gedeon Richter and personal fees from Educational activities for Ferring, outside the submitted work. K.F. reports personal fees from Ferring (commercial sponsor) and personal fees from GoodLife (commercial sponsor). C.B.L. received speakers' fee from Ferring. J.M.J.S.S. reports personal fees and other from Merck Serono and personal fees from Ferring, unrelated to the submitted paper. The other authors declare that they have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN83157250. Registered 17 August 2018. Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Koedooder
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre (UMC), Wytemaweg, CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Singer
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, De Boelelaan, HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Schoenmakers
- Division Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Wytemaweg, CN Rotterdam
| | - P H M Savelkoul
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, De Boelelaan, HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan, HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - S A Morré
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, De Boelelaan, HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Institute of Public Health Genomics, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research Institute GROW, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - J D de Jonge
- ARTPred B.V., Kruisweg, NC Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | - L Poort
- IS-Diagnostics Ltd, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, VUmc, Science park, XG Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W J S S Cuypers
- Dutch Division, MVZ VivaNeo Kinderwunschzentrum Düsseldorf GmbH, Völklinger Straße 4, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - N G M Beckers
- VivaNeo Medisch Centrum Kinderwens, Simon Smitweg, GA Leiderdorp, The Netherlands
| | - F J M Broekmans
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan, CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B J Cohlen
- Isala Voortplantingscentrum, Isala Kliniek, Dokter Spanjaardweg, BT Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - J E den Hartog
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht Universitair Medisch Centrum+, P. Debyelaan, HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - K Fleischer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein, HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - C B Lambalk
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, De Boelelaan, HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J M J S Smeenk
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sint Elisabeth Ziekenhuis, Hilvarenbeekseweg, GC Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - A E Budding
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, De Boelelaan, HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,IS-Diagnostics Ltd, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, VUmc, Science park, XG Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre (UMC), Wytemaweg, CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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15
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Characterization of the Vaginal Microbiome in Women with Infertility and Its Potential Correlation with Hormone Stimulation during In Vitro Fertilization Surgery. mSystems 2020; 5:5/4/e00450-20. [PMID: 32665329 PMCID: PMC7363005 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00450-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The microbiome had been hypothesized to be involved in the physiology and pathophysiology of assisted reproduction before the first success in IVF, while the data supporting or refuting this hypothesis were less than conclusive. Thanks to sequencing data from the 16S rRNA subunit, we characterized the microbiome in the reproductive tract of infertile women, and we found that changes in the vaginal microbiome are related to female infertility. We also found that the characteristic microbiome bacteria are mainly members of several genera and that the vaginal microbiome of infertile women is not sensitive to hormonal changes during IVF. In conclusion, our report provides data that can be used for discovering the role of the vaginal microbiome in patients suffering from secondary infertility. Perturbation of vaginal microbiome of reproductive-age women influences all the phases of a woman's reproductive life. Although studies have shown that dynamic changes in vaginal microbiome can affect pregnancy, its role in secondary infertility (i.e., inability to become pregnant or to carry a pregnancy successfully after previous success in delivering a child) and in vitrofertilization (IVF) remains to be unraveled. To determine the vaginal microbiome in women undergoing in vitrofertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and investigate its potential correlations with hormone stimulation, we recruited 30 patients with secondary infertility and receiving IVF and 92 matched healthy women and analyzed their vaginal microbiome composition using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Our results show that women suffering from infertility (infertile women) exhibit a significant decrease in microbiome diversity and richness compared with healthy women during the nonovulation period (follicular phase) (P < 0.01), whereas vaginal microbiome of healthy women reveals dramatic fluctuations during ovulation (P < 0.05). Interestingly, infertility patients show no change of the vaginal microbiome under conditions of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist and recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin (r-hCG) induction (P > 0.05). Moreover, our results indicate that infertile women show characteristic variations in vaginal microbiome, such as increased abundance of Atopobium, Aerococcus, and Bifidobacterium and decreased abundance of Lactobacillus and Leuconostoc. IMPORTANCE The microbiome had been hypothesized to be involved in the physiology and pathophysiology of assisted reproduction before the first success in IVF, while the data supporting or refuting this hypothesis were less than conclusive. Thanks to sequencing data from the 16S rRNA subunit, we characterized the microbiome in the reproductive tract of infertile women, and we found that changes in the vaginal microbiome are related to female infertility. We also found that the characteristic microbiome bacteria are mainly members of several genera and that the vaginal microbiome of infertile women is not sensitive to hormonal changes during IVF. In conclusion, our report provides data that can be used for discovering the role of the vaginal microbiome in patients suffering from secondary infertility.
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16
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García-Velasco JA, Budding D, Campe H, Malfertheiner SF, Hamamah S, Santjohanser C, Schuppe-Koistinen I, Nielsen HS, Vieira-Silva S, Laven J. The reproductive microbiome - clinical practice recommendations for fertility specialists. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:443-453. [PMID: 32753361 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The interest in and understanding of the human microbiome has grown remarkably over recent years. Advances in molecular techniques have allowed researchers to identify and study the microbiota and also use this information to develop therapeutic solutions for a spectrum of conditions. Alongside the growing interest in the microbiome, societal changes have resulted in many couples looking to start families later in life, therefore increasing the demand for assisted reproductive technologies. Combining these trends, it makes sense that clinicians are eager to understand and exploit the microbiome of their patients, i.e. the reproductive microbiome, in order to help them achieve their goal of becoming parents. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current and future research into the reproductive microbiome in relation to fertility and also share clinical practice recommendations for physicians who are new to this field or unsure about how they can utilise what is known to help their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan A García-Velasco
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVI Madrid, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid 28023, Spain.
| | | | | | | | - Samir Hamamah
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Service Biologie de la Reproduction, 34295 Montpellier, Inserm U1203, France
| | | | - Ina Schuppe-Koistinen
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Centre for Translational Microbiome Research (CTMR), Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Henriette Svarre Nielsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hvidovre Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre 2650, Denmark
| | - Sara Vieira-Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium; Center for Microbiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joop Laven
- Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Division of Reproductive Medicine, Rotterdam 3015 GD, the Netherlands
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17
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Koedooder R, Mackens S, Budding A, Fares D, Blockeel C, Laven J, Schoenmakers S. Identification and evaluation of the microbiome in the female and male reproductive tracts. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:298-325. [PMID: 30938752 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existence of an extensive microbiome in and on the human body has increasingly dominated the scientific literature during the last decade. A shift from culture-dependent to culture-independent identification of microbes has occurred since the emergence of next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, whole genome shotgun and metagenomic sequencing. These sequencing analyses have revealed the presence of a rich diversity of microbes in most exposed surfaces of the human body, such as throughout the reproductive tract. The results of microbiota analyses are influenced by the technical specifications of the applied methods of analyses. Therefore, it is difficult to correctly compare and interpret the results of different studies of the same anatomical niche. OBJECTIVES AND RATIONALE The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the currently used techniques and the reported microbiota compositions in the different anatomical parts of the female and male reproductive tracts since the introduction of NGS in 2005. This is crucial to understand and determine the interactions and roles of the different microbes necessary for successful reproduction. SEARCH METHODS A search in Embase, Medline Ovid, Web of science, Cochrane and Google scholar was conducted. The search was limited to English language and studies published between January 2005 and April 2018. Included articles needed to be original microbiome research related to the reproductive tracts. OUTCOMES The review provides an extensive up-to-date overview of current microbiome research in the field of human reproductive medicine. The possibility of drawing general conclusions is limited due to diversity in the execution of analytical steps in microbiome research, such as local protocols, sampling methods, primers used, sequencing techniques and bioinformatic pipelines, making it difficult to compare and interpret results of the available studies. Although some microbiota are associated with reproductive success and a good pregnancy outcome, it is still unknown whether a causal link exists. More research is needed to further explore the possible clinical implications and therapeutic interventions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS For the field of reproductive medicine, determination of what is a favourable reproductive tract microbiome will provide insight into the mechanisms of both unsuccessful and successful human reproduction. To increase pregnancy chances with live birth and to reduce reproduction-related health costs, future research could focus on postponing treatment or conception in case of the presence of unfavourable microbiota and on the development of therapeutic interventions, such as microbial therapeutics and lifestyle adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rivka Koedooder
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Shari Mackens
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101-1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andries Budding
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC-location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Damiat Fares
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101-1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joop Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Haahr T, Humaidan P, Elbaek HO, Alsbjerg B, Laursen RJ, Rygaard K, Johannesen TB, Andersen PS, Ng KL, Jensen JS. Vaginal Microbiota and In Vitro Fertilization Outcomes: Development of a Simple Diagnostic Tool to Predict Patients at Risk of a Poor Reproductive Outcome. J Infect Dis 2020; 219:1809-1817. [PMID: 30597027 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female reproductive tract microbiota may affect human reproduction. The current study considered whether a more detailed characterization of the vaginal microbiota could improve prediction of risk of poor reproductive outcome in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). METHODS Vaginal samples from 120 patients undergoing IVF were sequenced using the V4 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene with clustering of Gardnerella vaginalis genomic clades. Abnormal vaginal microbiota was defined by microscopy and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for G. vaginalis and/or Atopobium vaginae above a threshold. RESULTS Three major community state types with abundance of Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus iners, and a diverse community type were identified, including 2 subtypes, characterized by a high abundance of L. crispatus and L. iners, respectively, but in combination with common diversity type operational taxonomic units. No significant association between community state type and the reproductive outcome could be demonstrated; however, abnormal vaginal microbiota by qPCR and a grouping based on high Shannon diversity index predicted the reproductive outcome equally well. CONCLUSIONS The predictive value of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing was not superior to the simpler and less expensive qPCR diagnostic approach in predicting the risk of a poor reproductive outcome in patients undergoing IVF. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT02042352.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thor Haahr
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle Olesen Elbaek
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgit Alsbjerg
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rita Jakubcionyte Laursen
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Kim Lee Ng
- Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Vergaro P, Tiscornia G, Barragán M, García D, Rodriguez A, Santaló J, Vassena R. Vaginal microbiota profile at the time of embryo transfer does not affect live birth rate in IVF cycles with donated oocytes. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 38:883-891. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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20
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Singer M, Borg M, Ouburg S, Morré SA. The relation of the vaginal microbiota to early pregnancy development during in vitro fertilization treatment-A meta-analysis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2019; 48:223-229. [PMID: 30685426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
An abnormal vaginal microbiota composition has been shown to lead to pre-term births, miscarriage, and problems with conceiving. Studies have suggested that dysbiosis reduces successful early pregnancy development during IVF. However, conflicting reports exist. This meta-analysis aims to answer the following question: what is the aggregated effect found by studies investigating the influence of the vaginal microbiota composition on early pregnancy rates after IVF treatment? A systematic review was performed using the Medline and EMBASE databases, using search terms for healthy vaginal microbiota, abnormal vaginal microbiota, fertility and pregnancy. The search resulted in six included articles. Of these, all six were used for further meta-analysis. The main outcome measures were the clinical pregnancy rate, determined through ultrasound proven fetal heartbeat and/or hCG results before 10 weeks gestation, in relation to the vaginal microbiota composition. We found a correlation between abnormal vaginal microbiota and lower rates of early pregnancy development after IVF treatment (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.49 - 0.99). One study showed the reverse correlation. However, heterogeneity between study methodologies in various forms was found. In conclusion, women with an abnormal vaginal microbiota are roughly 1.4 times less likely to have a successful early pregnancy development after IVF treatment when compared to women with normal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Singer
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Tubascan, spin-off at the Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - M Borg
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Institute of Public Health Genomics, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - S Ouburg
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S A Morré
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Tubascan, spin-off at the Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC: Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Institute of Public Health Genomics, Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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21
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The ReceptIVFity cohort study protocol to validate the urogenital microbiome as predictor for IVF or IVF/ICSI outcome. Reprod Health 2018; 15:202. [PMID: 30526664 PMCID: PMC6286554 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-018-0653-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the last decade, research has shown that besides the known predictive factors, such as duration of subfertility, a women’s age, the body mass index, also the microbiome might affect fertility. Micro-organisms together with their genetic information and the milieu in which they interact are called the microbiome. Studies have shown that the presence of certain microbiota during assisted reproductive technology (ART) has a positive impact on the outcome. However, the potential role of using the microbiome as a predictor for outcome of ART has not yet been investigated. Methods In a prospective study, 300 women of reproductive age and with an indication for in-vitro Fertilization (IVF) with or without Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) treatment will be included. Prior to the IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment, these women provided a midstream urine sample and a vaginal swab. The composition of the urinary and vaginal microbiome will be analysed with both Next Generation Sequencing and the IS-pro technique. The endpoints of the study are pregnancy achieved after fresh embryo transfer (ET) and within the subsequent year after inclusion. External validation of the findings will take place in an additional cohort of 50 women with an IVF or IVF-ICSI indication. Discussion In the proposed study, the predictive accuracy of the composition of the urinary and vaginal microbiome for IVF or IVF-ICSI outcome will be only validated for fresh ET. Follow-up has to show whether the predictive accuracy will be similar during the consecutive frozen ET’s as part of the IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment or for subsequent stimulated or natural cycles. In addition, external validation will take place in another cohort and hospital. Predictive knowledge of the microbiome profile may enable couples to make a more substantiated decision on whether to continue treatment or not. Hence, the unnecessary physical and emotional burden of a failed IVF or IVF-ICSI treatment can be avoided. Trial registration ISRCTN ISRCTN83157250. Registered 17 August 2018. Retrospectively registered.
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22
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Ricci S, De Giorgi S, Lazzeri E, Luddi A, Rossi S, Piomboni P, De Leo V, Pozzi G. Impact of asymptomatic genital tract infections on in vitro Fertilization (IVF) outcome. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207684. [PMID: 30444931 PMCID: PMC6239332 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility is estimated to affect approximately 9–30% of reproductive-aged couples. Several conditions involving one or both partners may contribute to infertility. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of asymptomatic genital tract infections in the outcome of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in couples with infertility. Methods A total of 285 infertile couples were enrolled in the study. Vaginal/endocervical swabs and semen samples were collected and subjected to microbiological analysis. Spermiograms were carried out on semen specimens, and lactobacilli were quantified in vaginal swabs. Data were associated with IVF results and analysed by using non parametric tests and multivariate analysis. Results Microbiological analysis showed that 46.3% of couples presented with an asymptomatic genital tract infection. Spermiogram results showed a significantly diminished motility of sperm cells in samples positive to microbiological testing compared to negative specimens. Enterococcus faecalis was the most prevalent species (11.6%) in positive semen samples and was found to negatively affect both sperm morphology (p = 0.026) and motility (p = 0.003). Analysis of genital swabs from females showed that the presence of E. faecalis (p<0.0001), Escherichia coli (p = 0.0123), Streptococcus agalactiae (p<0.0001), and Gardnerella vaginalis (p = 0.0003) was significantly associated to reduced levels of vaginal lactobacilli. Association of microbiological data with IVF outcome showed that 85.7% of IVF+ couples was microbiologically negative, while IVF was successful in just 7.5% of couples infected with E. faecalis and/or U. urealyticum and/or M. hominis (p = 0.02). Conclusions The results show the negative impact of E. faecalis on sperm quality and the association of definite bacterial pathogens with reduced levels of vaginal lactobacilli. The presence of E. faecalis and/or U. urealyticum and/or M. hominis in genital samples of infertile couples is predictive for a negative outcome of IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Ricci
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology (LA.M.M.B.), Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Bacteriology Unit, Siena University Hospital, Siena, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Stefano De Giorgi
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology (LA.M.M.B.), Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elisa Lazzeri
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology (LA.M.M.B.), Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alice Luddi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Paola Piomboni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Couple Sterility, Siena University Hospital, Siena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Leo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Couple Sterility, Siena University Hospital, Siena, Italy
| | - Gianni Pozzi
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology (LA.M.M.B.), Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Bacteriology Unit, Siena University Hospital, Siena, Italy
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23
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Gao H, Gao Y, Yang C, Dong D, Yang J, Peng G, Peng J, Wang Y, Pan C, Dong W. Influence of outer membrane vesicles of Proteus mirabilis isolated from boar semen on sperm function. Vet Microbiol 2018; 224:34-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Bracewell-Milnes T, Saso S, Nikolaou D, Norman-Taylor J, Johnson M, Thum MY. Investigating the effect of an abnormal cervico-vaginal and endometrial microbiome on assisted reproductive technologies: A systematic review. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e13037. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.13037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Bracewell-Milnes
- Division of Surgery and Cancer; Institute of Developmental Reproductive & Developmental Biology; Imperial College London; London UK
| | - Srdjan Saso
- Division of Surgery and Cancer; Institute of Reproductive & Developmental Biology; Imperial College London; London UK
| | - Dimitrios Nikolaou
- Assisted Conception Unit; Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Campus; London UK
| | | | - Mark Johnson
- Division of Surgery and Cancer; Institute of Developmental Reproductive & Developmental Biology; Imperial College London; London UK
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25
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Haahr T, Zacho J, Bräuner M, Shathmigha K, Skov Jensen J, Humaidan P. Reproductive outcome of patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation treatment and diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis or abnormal vaginal microbiota: a systematicPRISMAreview and meta‐analysis. BJOG 2018; 126:200-207. [DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T Haahr
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Skive Regional Hospital Skive Denmark
| | - J Zacho
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Skive Regional Hospital Skive Denmark
| | - M Bräuner
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Skive Regional Hospital Skive Denmark
| | - K Shathmigha
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Skive Regional Hospital Skive Denmark
| | - J Skov Jensen
- Microbiology and Infection Control Statens Serum Institut Copenhagen Denmark
| | - P Humaidan
- Department of Clinical Medicine Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Skive Regional Hospital Skive Denmark
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26
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Moini A, Mohammadi Yeganeh L, Shiva M, Ahmadieh M, Salman Yazdi R, Hasani F, Bagheri Lankarani N, Sanati A. Bacterial vaginosis and the risk of early miscarriage in women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles: a prospective cohort study. HUM FERTIL 2017; 21:263-268. [PMID: 28738736 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2017.1353709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the possible association of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and early miscarriage in 408 women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for reasons of male infertility. A vaginal sample was obtained before oocyte retrieval and evaluated for BV-associated bacteria using the Nugent scoring system. The primary outcome was early miscarriage and the secondary outcomes included implantation, pregnancy, late miscarriage, preterm delivery and live birth rates. Chi-square, ANOVA, relative risk and odds ratio were used for data analysis where appropriate. The prevalence of BV was estimated as 7.3%. From 336 patients who had embryo transfer, 138 patients (41.1%) conceived. A total of 17% (n = 23) of pregnant women miscarried during the first trimester: 15 patients (15%) were normal, 4 (17.4%) were intermediate and 4 (26.7%) patients had BV (p = 0.52). The relative risk of early miscarriage in BV patients compared to the non-BV and intermediate group was 1.77 (0.68-4.64, 95% CI). Implantation, pregnancy, preterm delivery and live birth rates were comparable between groups. We conclude that BV does not appear to have an adverse impact on outcomes in women being treated with ICSI for male factor infertility and is not associated with miscarriage and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Moini
- a Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Ladan Mohammadi Yeganeh
- a Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Marzieh Shiva
- a Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Malihe Ahmadieh
- a Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Reza Salman Yazdi
- b Department of Andrology , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Fatemeh Hasani
- c Department of Embryology , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Narges Bagheri Lankarani
- d Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health , Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
| | - Azam Sanati
- a Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine , Tehran , Iran
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Campisciano G, Florian F, D'Eustacchio A, Stanković D, Ricci G, De Seta F, Comar M. Subclinical alteration of the cervical-vaginal microbiome in women with idiopathic infertility. J Cell Physiol 2017; 232:1681-1688. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fiorella Florian
- Department of Life Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Angela D'Eustacchio
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”; Trieste Italy
| | - David Stanković
- Department of Life Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Department of Medical Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”; Trieste Italy
| | - Francesco De Seta
- Department of Medical Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”; Trieste Italy
| | - Manola Comar
- Department of Medical Sciences; University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”; Trieste Italy
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Haahr T, Jensen J, Thomsen L, Duus L, Rygaard K, Humaidan P. Abnormal vaginal microbiota may be associated with poor reproductive outcomes: a prospective study in IVF patients. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:795-803. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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Machado A, Cerca N. Influence of Biofilm Formation by Gardnerella vaginalis and Other Anaerobes on Bacterial Vaginosis. J Infect Dis 2015; 212:1856-61. [PMID: 26080369 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiv338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the worldwide leading vaginal disorder among women of reproductive age. BV is characterized by the replacement of beneficial lactobacilli and the augmentation of anaerobic bacteria. Gardnerella vaginalis is a predominant bacterial species, but BV is also associated with other numerous anaerobes, such as Atopobium vaginae, Mobiluncus mulieris, Prevotella bivia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Peptoniphilus species. Currently, the role of G. vaginalis in the etiology of BV remains a matter of controversy. However, it is known that, in patients with BV, a biofilm is usually formed on the vaginal epithelium and that G. vaginalis is typically the predominant species. So, the current paradigm is that the establishment of a biofilm plays a key role in the pathogenesis of BV. This review provides background on the influence of biofilm formation by G. vaginalis and other anaerobes, from the time of their initial adhesion until biofilm formation, in the polymicrobial etiology of BV and discusses the commensal and synergic interactions established between them to understand the phenotypic shift of G. vaginalis biofilm formation to BV establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Machado
- Centre of Biological Engineering, Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal Instituto de Microbiología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Ecuador
| | - Nuno Cerca
- Centre of Biological Engineering, Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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Risk factors for bacterial vaginosis: results from a cross-sectional study having a sample of 53,652 women. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2014; 33:1525-32. [PMID: 24756211 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-014-2103-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate the risk factors of bacterial vaginosis (BV) among rural married women of childbearing age in Anhui Province of China. A cross-sectional study was conducted and the method of stratified cluster sampling was used to identify a sample of 53,652 married women aged 18-49 years. All women were asked to complete an interviewer-administered standardized questionnaire, covering sociodemographic characteristics, history of menstruation, marriage and procreation, sexual life, personal hygienic behaviors, and reproductive tract infections (RTIs) knowledge, followed by the gynecological examination and laboratory inspection. A total of 53,286 married women aged 18-49 years were included in this analysis. The prevalence of BV was 11.99 % (6,391/53,286). Risk factors for BV included the minority nationality, women's lower education levels, husband's elder age, over 35 days of menstrual cycle, less than 3 days of menstruation, dysmenorrhea, usage of an intrauterine device (IUD), lack of RTIs knowledge, higher frequency of washing genitals before having sex with husband and changing underwear, lower frequency of sexual intercourse per month, and suffering from other RTIs. The results suggest that BV can be affected by many factors among rural married women of reproductive age, so comprehensive, scheduled programs at healthcare educations should be provided for women in order to prevent BV.
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