| Abstract [eng] |
Relevance of the problem and aim of the review. The past decade has seen an increase in scientific data on the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of the female reproductive disorders. Recent studies suggest the importance of antioxidants for the effective functioning of female reproductive system. The aim of this review is to evaluate the role of antioxidants in the female reproductive system as well as to investigate the therapeutic potential of supplementary oral antioxidants. Materials and methods. Literature search was conducted in the Pubmed (MEDLINE) and Web of Science medical databases and in the specialized search engine Google Scholar. Systematic search of literature was based on the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results. Studies show that reactive oxygen species are a significant component of female reproductive physiology. However, an excess of said radicals or impaired antioxidant-mediated defence mechanisms result in oxidative stress which is associated with a number of reproductive pathologies. Several studies demonstrate that women with polycystic ovarian syndrome treated with oral antioxidants show reduced levels of oxidative stress markers. Additionally, tighter glicemic regulation, increased insulin sensitivity and improved metabolic parameters alongside increased numbers of good quality oocytes and embryos during assisted reproduction have been reported. Endometriosis patients also reported decreased pelvic pain, dysmenorrhoea and dyspareunia levels with oral antioxidant use. Conclusions. Based on current evidence, oral antioxidant use might be beneficial to women with polycystic ovarian syndrome or endometriosis in order to decrease oxidative stress markers and improve symptoms as well as other metabolic parameters. Further randomized controlled large sample trials are needed in the future to confirm current results. |
