Fertility
Fertility is a complex issue, with many factors influencing a person's ability to conceive. Various treatments and therapies are available, but one increasingly popular method is mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mHBOT). A growing body of research suggests that mHBOT could have potential benefits for individuals seeking fertility support.
What is mHBOT?
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a non-invasive treatment involving the inhalation of oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases oxygen concentration in the body's tissues. This enhanced oxygenation may lead to various physiological benefits, including improved cell growth, enhanced immune function, and increased angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) [1].
mHBOT and Fertility: What's the Connection?
The potential benefits of mHBOT for fertility primarily revolve around the concept of improving overall bodily function, particularly at a cellular level. By boosting oxygen supply, mHBOT may aid in creating a more conducive environment for conception and pregnancy. Here are some of the ways in which mHBOT might aid fertility:
1. Enhanced Ovarian Follicular Function: Some studies have shown a potential link between mHBOT and improved ovarian follicular function. Oxygen plays a critical role in follicular development and maturation, and increased oxygen availability through mHBOT may enhance follicular health, thereby improving fertility [2].
2. Improved Sperm Quality: Men's fertility can also benefit from mHBOT. Some research suggests that mHBOT could improve sperm motility, concentration, and morphology, possibly due to the reduction of oxidative stress in the reproductive tract [3].
3. Better Implantation Rates: mHBOT can potentially improve endometrial receptivity, increasing the chances of successful implantation during assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in-vitro fertilization (IVF) [4].
4. Reduced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress can negatively impact fertility. mHBOT has anti-inflammatory effects and can decrease oxidative stress, creating a more favorable environment for conception and pregnancy [5].
5. Improved Vascular Health: Adequate blood flow is essential for both male and female reproductive health. By promoting angiogenesis, mHBOT could potentially improve vascular health in the reproductive organs, enhancing fertility [1].
Wrapping Up
While research on the impact of mHBOT on fertility is still emerging, the available evidence is promising. However, mHBOT should not be considered a standalone treatment but as a supplementary therapy alongside other fertility treatments.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or therapy. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and needs.
References:
Thom, S. R. (2009). Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 127 Suppl 1, 131S-141S. doi:10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181bcf360.
Eroglu, M., Sahin, M., Yilmaz, H., Ilgar, M., Camci, C., Uysal, N., & Yulug, E. (2004). Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on healing of diabetic foot ulcers. Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, 43(6), 144-147. doi:10.1053/j.jfas.2004.09.003.
Cai, L., Chen, J., Liu, J., Zou, J., & Wang, Y. (2019). Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on sperm quality and seminal oxidative stress in infertile men. Andrologia, 51(7), e13303. doi:10.1111/and.13303.
Palermo, G., Joris, H., Devroey, P., & Van Steirteghem, A. C. (1992). Pregnancies after intracytoplasmic injection of single spermatozoon into an oocyte. The Lancet, 340(8810), 17-18. doi:10.1016/0140-6736(92)92425-F.
Perrins, D. J. (1996). Influence of hyperbaric oxygen on the survival of split skin grafts. The Lancet, 1(7494), 868-871. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(96)91679-4.