IMPACT OF VITAMIN D, ETHINYLESTRADIOL-CYPROTERONE, AND METFORMIN ON INFERTILITY OUTCOMES IN ATHLETES WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation combined with ethinylestradiol-cyproterone and metformin in treating infertility among athletes with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 72 female athletes diagnosed with PCOS-induced infertility, treated at our hospital from June 2019 to March 2022. Patients were divided into two groups based on their treatment regimen. The control group received a combination of ethinylestradiol-cyproterone and metformin, while the observation group received an additional vitamin D supplement. We compared changes in endocrine-related hormones, vitamin D levels, metabolic indicators, clinical efficacy, adverse reactions, menstrual recovery, ovulation rates, and pregnancy rates between the two groups. Results: Post-treatment, the observation group showed significant improvements in serum levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), LH/FSH ratio, Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), and testosterone compared to the control group (P<0.05). Vitamin D levels were also higher in the observation group (P<0.05). Additionally, this group exhibited lower fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) levels (P<0.05). Clinical effectiveness, menstrual recovery, ovulation, and pregnancy rates were all significantly better in the observation group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of adverse reactions between the groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation, when added to a regimen of ethinylestradiol-cyproterone and metformin, significantly enhances the treatment outcomes for infertility in athletes with PCOS. This combination therapy not only improves hormonal and metabolic profiles but also increases the likelihood of menstrual recovery, ovulation, and conception without increasing adverse reactions. This suggests a potentially vital role for vitamin D in the management of PCOS-related infertility in athletes.