The Role of Selected Elements in Oxidative Stress Protection: Key to Healthy Fertility and Reproduction

Abstract

Oxidative stress and its relationship to fertility and reproduction is a topic of interest in medicine, especially in the context of the effects of trace elements and micronutrients. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an excess of free radicals in the body, which can lead to cell and tissue damage. Free radicals are reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can be formed as a result of normal metabolic processes, as well as under the influence of external factors such as environmental pollution, UV radiation, and diet. Oxidative stress has a significant impact on fertility. In men, it can lead to DNA damage in sperm, which can result in reduced semen quality, reduced sperm motility and increased numbers of defective sperm, and free radical damage to sperm cell membranes causing a reduction in the number of available sperm. In women, oxidative stress can affect the quality of female reproductive cells, which can lead to problems with their maturation and with embryo implantation in the uterus and can also affect ovarian function and disrupt hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. A proper balance of trace elements and micronutrients is key to protecting against oxidative stress and maintaining reproductive health. Supplementation with appropriate elements such as zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, and iron can help reduce oxidative stress and improve fertility. This work discusses the effects of selected elements on oxidative stress parameters specifically in terms of fertility and reproduction.