Role of Melatonin Supplementation in Follicular Fluid of in Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Patients With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Role of Melatonin Supplementation in Follicular Fluid of in Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Patients With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
To evaluate the effects of melatonin supplementation on the main in vitro fertilization (IVF)
 outcomes during ovarian stimulation in patients with Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that causes infertility due
 to anovulation in women of reproductive age. Anovulation and also decreased oocyte and embryo
 quality may be cause of infertility in women with PCOS. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen
 species (ROS) induce oxidative stress which may be responsible for poor oocyte quality. The
 ROS generation from mononuclear cells is elevated in women with PCOS and a significant
 increment of lipid peroxidation products in women with PCOS has been reported.

 Melatonin is a documented powerful free radical scavenger and a broad spectrum antioxidant.
 It has been observed that a non-PCOS group co-treated with inositol, folic acid, and
 melatonin (Inofolic Plus by LO.LI.Pharma) results in a significantly greater mean number of
 mature oocytes, and a lower mean number of immature oocytes in patients with low oocyte
 quality history when compared to treatment only with inositol and folic acid (Inofolic by
 LO.LI.Pharma).

 The aim of the study is to evaluate the possible effects of melatonin supplementation on the
 main IVF outcomes during ovarian stimulation of patients with PCOS.

 From July 2009 to December 2011, 358 patients with PCOS (Rotterdam criteria) were enrolled in
 this prospective randomized controlled trial.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  diagnosis of PCOS

 -  irregular menstrual cycle (> than 28-30 days)

 -  normal uterine cavity

 -  body mass index of 20 to 26 Kg/m2

 -  first IVF treatment

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  presence of tubal, uterine, genetics and male causes of infertility

 -  diagnosis of cancer

 -  hormonal treatment in the last six months