Study of Oxidative Stress and Microbiome Signatures in Women Aged 18 to 43 With Endometriosis or Male-Related Infertility

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how pesticide exposure and changes in the gut and genital microbiomes relate to endometriosis, a condition affecting womens reproductive health. This study aims to measure oxidative stress by analyzing circulating cell-free DNA cfDNA and to explore epigenetic changes. By comparing women with confirmed advanced endometriosis to women with infertility due to male factors, the study seeks to identify unique microbiome signatures and chemical exposures linked to the condition. Participants will be divided into two groups women aged 18 to 43 with confirmed stage 3 or 4 endometriosis, and women of the same age range with male-factor infertility and no endometriosis. Biological samples including blood, vaginal swabs, endometrial rinses, fecal samples, and hair will be collected to analyze cfDNA, microbiota profiles, and exposure to endocrine disruptors. Some procedures, like the endometrial rinse, are performed only after informed consent by a gynecologist. The study will follow participants for up to two years. During the study, researchers will quantify cfDNA levels, assess variations in vaginal, endometrial, and intestinal microbiota, evaluate exposure to endocrine disruptors through questionnaires and hair samples, and analyze DNA methylation. Participants will provide samples and complete questionnaires as part of the biological and environmental assessments. The study includes monitoring to ensure safety and adherence, with the total duration of participant involvement lasting two years.

Pesticides and Infertility: Oxidative Stress Via Circulating Cell-free DNA and Gut/Genital Microbiome Signatures in Women With Endometriosis