Bacterial lipopolysaccharide result in endotoxemia and subsequent low-grade pro-inflammatory state progressing to systemic inflammation. These pathogenic bacteria give rise to molecular mimicry, that is, cross-activation of autoreactive immune cells by pathogen-associated epitopes, with unfavorable implications. Infection and inflammation play a role in infertility by affecting ovary, uterus, the embryo, and implantation, and may interfere with ovulation and hormone production as well as contribute to endometriosis.
Periodontitis and infertility share common risk factors such as age, obesity, and tobacco smoking. The study carried out in Helsinki, Finland demonstrated with microbiological and serological methods that a common periodontal pathogen associated with conception. The study population comprised 256 healthy nonpregnant women (mean age 29.2 years, range 19 to 42) who had…
