The impact of vitamin E supplementation on sperm analysis in varicocelectomy patients: a triple-blind randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the impact of vitamin E supplementation on sperm analysis results in patients post-varicocelectomy.

Martials and method: This single-center, triple-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted at Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad, Iran. Ninety male patients, aged 15-25 years, with infertility and varicocele grade 2 or 3, were randomized into two groups. The intervention group received 400 units of vitamin E daily for 3 months, while the control group received a placebo. Sperm analysis was conducted before and 3 months after the intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 23, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results: A total of 90 patients were enrolled and equally randomized into two groups (n = 45 per group). The mean age was 30.68 ± 6.31 years. Post-intervention, the improvement in sperm motility was significantly higher in the vitamin E group compared to the placebo group (P = 0.03). Both groups showed significant improvements in sperm motility, count, and morphology from pre- to post-intervention (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Vitamin E supplementation post-varicocelectomy is associated with improved sperm parameters, suggesting potential benefits in the management of male infertility related to varicocele. However, varicocelectomy alone also results in significant improvements.

Trial registration: This study is registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20200911048689N1). Registered on October 10, 2020.