The Role of Zinc in Selected Female Reproductive System Disorders

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#adult #female #humans #pregnancy #dietary-supplements

The Role of Zinc in Selected Female Reproductive System Disorders

Nasiadek et al., 2020 | Nutrients | Systematic Review

Citation

Nasiadek Marzenna, Stragierowicz Joanna, ... Kilanowicz Anna. The Role of Zinc in Selected Female Reproductive System Disorders. Nutrients. 2020-Aug-16;12(8). doi:10.3390/nu12082464

Abstract

Zinc is an essential microelement that plays many important functions in the body. It is crucial for the regulation of cell growth, hormone release, immunological response and reproduction. This review focuses on its importance in the reproductive system of women of reproductive and postmenopausal ages, not including its well described role in pregnancy. Only recently, attention has been drawn to the potential role of zinc in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dysmenorrhea, or endometriosis. This review is mainly based on 36 randomized, controlled studies on reproductive, pre- and post-menopausal populations of women and on research trying to explain the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation in the etiology of selected female reproductive system disorders. In women with PCOS, zinc supplementation has a positive effect on many parameters, especially those related to insulin resistance and lipid balance. In primary dysmenorrhea, zinc supplementation before and during each menstrual cycle seems to be an important factor reducing the intensity of menstrual pain. On the other hand, little is known of the role of zinc in endometriosis and in postmenopausal women. Therefore, further studies explaining the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation on female reproductive system would be highly advisable and valuable.

Key Findings

Therefore, further studies explaining the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation on female reproductive system would be highly advisable and valuable.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population postmenopausal women
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Dysmenorrhea
  • Endometriosis
  • Insulin Resistance
  • Lipid Metabolism
  • Menstrual Cycle
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
  • Reproduction
  • Zinc

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: zinc

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09