Association of Vitamin-D insufficiency and infertility: A Literature Review

Abstract

Vitamin D receptors are present in both male and female central neural system and reproductive system hence Vitamin D sufficiency or insufficiency affects fertility. The present review aims to determine a correlation between Vitamin D insufficiency and infertility. Regarding female infertility, it was found that Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with increased issues during conception and higher miscarriage rate. Furthermore, Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with lower FSH levels affecting follicle formation, maturation and ovulation. Regarding male infertility, Vitamin D and its Receptor have been identified in the prostate, seminal vesicles, epididymis, germ cells, spermatogonia, spermatocytes and Sertoli cells. The prevalence of Vitamin D insufficiency is higher among men with lower sperm count and lower motility. However, the relation between Vitamin D and testosterone levels remain unclear. The present review stresses the effects of Vitamin D insufficiency in both male and female infertility.