Fertility: Infection and Inflammation

The investigators aim to investigate whether inflammatory and inflammation-inducing factors detectable in the collected samples, as well as infections present in these samples, are altered in cases of fertility issues and whether these factors could be predictive of pregnancy progression and child outcomes. Specifically, factors that mediate inflammation-acting either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory-will be examined for their association with pregnancy establishment. This includes, for example, signaling molecules such as cytokines, metabolic and endocrinological parameters that may contribute to a pro-inflammatory milieu (e.g., hyperglycemia, blood lipids, hormones), viral infections that may influence fertility (e.g., human papillomavirus (HPV), herpesviruses). Additionally, a standard blood panel will be performed.

Fertility issues are increasing in both women and men. The causes are not only due to the higher age of couples wishing to conceive but also to infections, environmental factors (e.g., environmental toxins), and lifestyle-associated factors (e.g., BMI, increased body fat percentage, and diabetes). The fertilization of the egg and the implantation of the embryo into the endometrium is a highly complex process influenced by many factors. The egg, sperm, embryo, and endometrium all play a crucial role. Essential are, on the one hand, factors secreted by these components, which are present in maternal blood, follicular fluid, or ejaculate, and on the other hand, factors produced by the mother that influence the egg, fertilization, embryo, and endometrium.

Inflammatory processes, such as those occurring due to viral or bacterial infections, metabolic dysregulations (diabetes or obesity), or exposure to environmental substances (environmental toxins), may alter the normal milieu and thereby affect fertilization and implantation. In the context of assisted reproductive technologies (in vitro fertilization, IVF), the investigators have the opportunity to analyze samples that are not accessible during natural conception. These samples allow us to identify the presence of inflammatory processes and investigate their impact on pregnancy establishment.

1. Sample Collection:

In the diagnostic cycle-a cycle preceding further fertility treatment, during which possible causes of infertility are assessed-blood samples in both the early and late follicular phase (cycle days 2-5 and 19-21) will be collected and an endometrial sample (7 days after ovulation). Additionally body composition (including body fat percentage) is measured in the BOD POD and via ultrasound.