Effect of patient and partner preconceptional nutraceutical supplementation on the onset of natural pregnancy: a retrospective studyBACKGROUND: Infertility affects 10–15% of couples worldwide. Although assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization are effective, they are invasive, costly, and not without risks. Nutraceutical supplementation has gained importance as a non-invasive option to support natural conception.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether combined nutraceutical supplementation improves natural pregnancy rates in subfertile couples with a relative indication for in vitro fertilization while awaiting treatment.
METHODS: This retrospective study included 213 couples followed for 6 months (119 in the supplementation group; 94 controls). In the treatment group, both partners received combined nutraceutical supplementation (PROfertil® female/male). Controls received folic acid for women only, while men received no treatment. All couples were on an in vitro fertilization waiting list without an absolute indication for immediate assisted reproductive technologies. Those with oligoasthenozoospermia II/III or bilateral tubal occlusion were excluded. The primary endpoint was a natural pregnancy within 6 months.
RESULTS: Natural conception occurred more often in the supplementation group than in controls (66.4 vs. 39.4%, p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression showed a 4.13-fold higher odds of pregnancy with supplementation (95%CI 2.12–8.04, p<0.001).
CONCLUSION: Combined nutraceutical supplementation significantly increased natural pregnancy rates in couples awaiting in vitro fertilization. Randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings and assess live birth outcomes.
KEYWORDS:
Dietary supplements; Time-to-pregnancy; Reproductive health; Preconception care; Infertility