CHRONIC inflammation, poor nutrition, and metabolic dysfunction may significantly impact female fertility, according to a large population-based study that offers new insights into preventable infertility risk factors.
Analysing data from 1,250 women aged 18–45 enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), researchers found that 12.3% reported infertility. The study identified several independent risk factors, including marital status, systemic immune inflammation index (SII), body mass index (BMI), nutritional risk index (NRI), and metabolic syndrome.
A nomogram risk prediction model based on these factors showed solid performance, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.703. Fertility risk scores derived from the model stratified women into three groups: those in the highest risk group had an infertility rate of 22.1%, compared with just 4.5% in the lowest.
Subgroup analyses confirmed the strength of the associations. Notably, systemic inflammation and markers of metabolic imbalance such as BMI and metabolic syndrome were significantly correlated with reduced fertility, while nutritional status emerged as a modifiable protective factor.
The findings suggest that reproductive outcomes in women of childbearing age could be improved through targeted interventions—namely by reducing systemic inflammation, managing weight and metabolic health, and addressing nutritional deficiencies.
This research not only highlights the biological links between systemic health and reproductive function but also provides clinicians with a practical tool to help assess and reduce infertility risk in women.
Reference
Zhang Z et al. Relationships between inflammatory indicators, nutritional status, and metabolic status and female infertility. Reprod Health. 2025;DOI: 10.1186/s12978-025-02059-1.
