Effect of Folic Acid and Zinc Supplementation in Men on Semen Quality and Live Birth Among Couples Undergoing Infertility Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Schisterman EF, Sjaarda LA, Clemons T, Carrell DT, Perkins NJ, Johnstone E, Mumford SL
Published in JAMA
Methodology
Multicentre randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (FAZST) of daily 5 mg folic acid plus 30 mg zinc for 6 months in men of couples undergoing infertility treatment
Key Findings
Folic acid plus zinc did not improve live birth rates or semen quality parameters compared with placebo, and was associated with more gastrointestinal side effects.
Conclusions
Folic acid and zinc supplementation in men did not significantly improve semen quality or live birth and is not supported for male infertility.
Limitations
Combined intervention cannot isolate zinc alone; participants were mostly zinc-replete US men; applies to couples already in fertility treatment.
Supplements Studied
Folic acid and zinc supplementation in men did not significantly improve semen quality or live birth.
The use of folic acid and zinc supplementation by male partners, compared with placebo, did not significantly improve semen quality or couples live birth rates.
Outcomes Measured
Folic acid and zinc supplementation in men did not significantly improve semen quality or live birth.
Folic acid and zinc supplementation did not improve live birth rates or semen quality and increased gastrointestinal side effects
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.