Causes of Infertility in Women with Diabetes: Literature Review

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a serious chronic disease, resulting from long-term hyperglycemia can lead to various complications. Complications of DM are associated with changes occurring in blood vessels and nerve fibers. Diabetes can affect a woman's reproductive function and lead to infertility. Decreased fertility in women with DM can be caused by various factors related to this disease. To date, the final mechanisms of reduced reproductive function in these women have not been fully elucidated, but it is known that the leading role belongs to chronic hyperglycemia. Purpose: Based on these literature sources, to investigate the possible causes of infertility in women with diabetes. Object: reduced fertility in women as a result of diabetes. Research methods: a review of literary sources. Results: There are quite a few causes of infertility and reduced fertility in women with DM, these include complications of diabetes (diabetic polyneuropathy); insulin resistance and, as a result, polycystic ovary syndrome; obesity; autoimmune and genetic factors; disorders of the menstrual cycle and hormone balance; low quality of egg cells due to oxidative stress and the formation of glycation products; reduction of cervical mucus due to hormonal disbalance, dehydration and inflammatory processes of the genital organs; psychogenic factors (phobias, fear of childbirth, future changes both in the body and in life). Conclusions: Based on the study of literary data, it can be said that the main causes of infertility in women with DM are caused by chronic hyperglycemia, and as a result, the development of pathological conditions that lead to disorders in the reproductive system. In addition, the causes of infertility in women with DM include disorders of the menstrual cycle and hormone balance, polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, and autoimmune and genetic mechanisms. Taking this into account, glycemic control, prevention and treatment of diabetes complications, lifestyle modification, nutrition, and psychological health support are necessary.