Fertility Challenges and Considerations Related to Assisted Reproductive Technology in Couples with Hepatitis B: (Review Article)

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Instructor, Department of Midwifery, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

2 PhD Student of Reproductive Health, Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

3 Professor, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Embryology, Infertility and Fertility Research Centre, Tehran Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis B is the most common viral human health threat and is spread through sex and blood. Research has revealed negative effects of viral infections on human fertility while currently using assisted reproductive technology is increasing in persons affected by sexually transmitted diseases. The aim of the present study was a survey on fertility challenges, outcomes of assisted reproductive technology in couples affected by hepatitis B, and how the infection is transmitted through gametes.
Methods: Data for the present review article were collected from Google Scholar, Medline (Pubmed), Cochran, and ScienceDirect databases. Using hepatitis B and (infertility, male infertility, female infertility, ART, father to fetal transmission) keywords and advanced search, all full-text English articles published in the last five years (2010–2015) were chosen. After preliminary inspection and resource appendix search, 43 articles were selected.
Results: This article describes various aspects of problems associated with fertile and infertile couples with hepatitis B who are willing to use assisted reproductive technology. Results showed that firstly, screening the affected couples and gamete donors for taking the necessary actions and appropriate consultation must be mandatory, and secondly, the hepatitis virus in gametes in free form or integrated with the DNA can have negative effects on fertility and the outcome of assisted reproductive techniques, and can be transmitted via gametes to fetuses and finally, sperm washing and assisted reproductive technology can be used for prevention of virus transmission.
Conclusion: Research findings demonstrate the importance of screening and the use of assisted reproductive technology to reduce the risk of hepatitis B infection.

Keywords

References

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The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility
Volume 18, Issue 182
February 2016
Pages 18-30

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