Infertility affects millions of couples globally, sparking significant interest in understanding its causes and developing effective treatments. Consulting with fertility specialists is crucial for couples to determine the most appropriate treatment for their specific circumstances.
Evaluate the Role of the Microbiome in Fertility
The connection between the human microbiome and overall health has gained increasing attention in recent years. Within fertility treatments, the microbiome—particularly of the reproductive system—is emerging as a critical factor influencing outcomes. In 2024, the European Fertility Society (EFS) became the first organisation to conduct a dedicated survey exploring awareness, beliefs, and clinical use of microbiome testing in fertility care—demonstrating a forward-thinking approach at the leading edge of this growing field.
The human microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, inhabiting various parts of the body. Research highlights its significant role in immune function, digestion, and even mental health. In the context of fertility, the microbiome of the reproductive tract is of particular interest. Disruptions in this ecosystem, such as bacterial vaginosis or infections, have been linked to infertility, miscarriage, and poor IVF outcomes.
Despite these connections, microbiome testing in fertility treatments remains in its early stages. Findings from the 2024 EFS survey reveal that while interest is growing, awareness and implementation vary widely among fertility specialists. The integration of microbiome testing into routine fertility assessments is not yet common practice.
As microbiome science continues to evolve, its application in fertility treatments holds significant promise. With continued research and a concerted effort to raise awareness, microbiome testing could become a standard component of fertility care—offering new hope to those navigating the challenges of infertility.
ABSTRACT SUMMARY
Fertility 2025 – Reproduction: Facts, Myths and Evidence.
8–11 January 2025, ACC Liverpool.
The joint conference of the Association of Reproductive & Clinical Scientists, the British Fertility Society, and the Society for Reproduction & Fertility.
The abstract was published in Human Fertility: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14647273.2025.2466874
Title: Evaluating the Role of the Microbiome in Fertility: Awareness, Practices, and Beliefs Among Professionals and Patients.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess awareness, practices, and beliefs regarding the microbiome’s role in fertility among fertility professionals and patients.
Methods: Two anonymous, cross-sectional online surveys were distributed via a Fertility Society website, email, and social media in August 2024. The professional survey assessed familiarity with microbiomes, perceived impact on fertility, and current clinical practices. The patient survey examined microbiome familiarity, engagement with healthcare providers, and interest in microbiome analysis in fertility treatments.
Results: A total of 466 people accessed the survey; 149 patients (68.7%) and 30 professionals (62.5%) completed all questions and were included in the analysis.
Professional Survey: 100% were familiar with the gut microbiome; 96.7% the vaginal microbiome; 50% the endometrial microbiome. 93.3% believe the microbiome affects fertility; 46.7% included microbiome health in fertility assessments. 66.7% recommend probiotics: 50% advise prebiotics. 100% believe lifestyle impacts fertility and expressed interest in microbiome training. 13.3% and 26.7% refer patients for gut and vaginal microbiome analyses, respectively.
Patient Survey: 89.9% were familiar with the gut microbiome; 79.2% with the vaginal microbiome; 34.2% with the endometrial microbiome. 88.6% believe microbiomes impact fertility; 30.9% had discussed this with their clinician. 45.6% consumed probiotic foods; 44.9% take probiotic supplements. 85.9% wanted microbiome analysis as part of fertility treatment; 96.6% believed lifestyle changes could positively affect reproductive health; 55.7% had undergone ART procedures.
Conclusion: The study highlights significant interest in the microbiome’s role in fertility among both professionals and patients, but there is a gap between belief and practice, with fewer than 50% of professionals incorporating microbiome health into fertility assessments. This underscores the need for education and the development of evidence-based guidelines for the integration of microbiome analysis in fertility treatments.
Limitations: The survey’s sample size and self-selection bias may skew results toward those already interested in microbiome research. Studies with larger, more diverse populations are needed.
Watch Julie Morgan, PhD Researher, MSc, RGN, APM (PFQ), the European Fertility Society’s Education Committee Chair, as she presents our survey results at the Fertility 2025 Conference on the topic “Evaluating the Role of the Microbiome in Fertility.” The video is available in the Members Area after logging in: https://www.europeanfertilitysociety.com/resources/