Fertility challenges are becoming more widely recognized, with around 19% of couples unable to conceive after a year of unprotected sex. For 10% of couples, the struggle continues beyond two years. As a result, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), are increasingly utilized.
In 2021, approximately 76,000 IVF cycles were performed in the UK, a significant rise from the 6,700 cycles reported in 1991. Alongside this increase, IVF success rates have also improved, climbing from 6% in 1991 to approximately 25–30% per cycle today. However, success is influenced by multiple factors, including maternal age, underlying fertility issues, and overall reproductive health. Given the financial and emotional investment involved in IVF, optimizing conditions for success is crucial. One emerging factor under investigation is the role of the vaginal microbiome in fertility outcomes.
Research suggests that the composition of the vaginal microbiome may influence IVF outcomes. A study found that women with an imbalanced microbiome were up to seven times less likely to conceive through IVF compared to those with a balanced microbial environment.
A well-balanced vaginal microbiome is believed to support IVF success by:
An altered vaginal microbiome may be associated with:
However, research indicates that 84% of individuals with an imbalanced vaginal microbiome experience no symptoms, making testing an important consideration.
The vaginal microbiome is gaining recognition as a key factor in reproductive health, with growing evidence suggesting its impact on IVF success. While further research is needed, optimizing microbial balance could be a valuable step in supporting fertility treatments.
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