Role of Micronutrients in Idiopathic Infertility and Preconception

Dr Swati Singh

Idiopathic infertility, micronutrients, preconception care, folic acid, iron supplementation, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, reproductive health

Abstract: Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected intercourse. It is a global health challenge that affects nearly 17.5% population worldwide. Notably, the prevalence is comparable across high-, middle-, and low-income countries, indicating the widespread nature of this issue. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), though essential for normal cellular functions such as signalling and immune response, can cause oxidative damage when produced in excess. In idiopathic male infertility, abnormal sperm morphology is linked to elevated ROS levels and weakened antioxidant defences. This oxidative stress damages sperm DNA and germ cells, impairing spermatogenesis, semen quality, and fertilisation capacity. Hormonal imbalance, particularly hypogonadism, is common in infertile men, who face significantly higher risks of azoospermia and reduced testicular volume—both markers of severe fertility impairment. The most common identifiable factors of female infertility are ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, tubal blockage, and uterine abnormalities. Idiopathic infertility, in which no specific cause can be identified, makes both diagnosis and management more challenging. In such cases, micronutrient imbalances may play a critical but often overlooked role. Adequate intake of micronutrients is essential for reproductive health. Given that many essential nutrients are often deficient in reproductive-age individuals, understanding and addressing these gaps are vital for better management of infertility. Early preconception counselling, targeted supplementation, and individualised nutritional interventions may improve fertility outcomes in idiopathic cases. This article highlights the importance of micronutrients in fertility, with supportive studies demonstrating that micronutrient supplementation significantly improved semen parameters in infertile men after 3 months of antioxidant supplementation. In women, micronutrients also play a crucial role. Nutrients such as folate support oocyte quality and maturation, zinc regulates ovulation and the menstrual cycle, and B vitamins and zinc are essential for DNA synthesis. Together, these findings highlight that targeted micronutrient therapy can enhance both male and female fertility by improving gamete quality and reproductive function.

Volume 10 Issue 8, August-2025

Pages : b427-b435