The effect of compounds containing myoinositol on sperm parameters and increasing fertility in men: a systematic review

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

MSc in Midwifery, Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran

10.22038/ijogi.2024.80839.6125

Abstract

Abstract

Infertility is a global issue referring to the inability to conceive after regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Oxidative stress is among the factors contributing to male infertility by impairing sperm production. Inositol, known for its antioxidant properties, can aid in improving male fertility. This systematic review aims to investigate the effects of inositol-containing supplements on sperm parameters and enhancing male fertility.

Research Methods

A systematic search was conducted on databases including Magiran, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, SID, and Google Scholar using Persian and English (infertility، inositol، male fertility، oligoasthenospermia، motility sperm) keywords with Boolean operators (AND and OR). Articles were selected and evaluated based on inclusion and exclusion criteria through title, abstract, and full-text review.

Results

Out of 23492 identified articles, 159 were screened based on title and abstract, and 10 were selected for final analysis. Data from studies conducted between 2015 and 2024, involving 778 participants, showed varied effects of inositol supplements across different categories of infertility. Significant improvements were observed in semen volume, total sperm count, progressive motility, and sperm concentration.

Conclusion

Inositol-containing supplements can be used as a management strategy for male infertility, potentially improving sperm parameters. Further research is necessary to validate these findings and explore underlying mechanisms more comprehensively.

Keywords: infertility, inositol, male fertility, motility sperm

Keywords

Main Subjects