The aim of this study was to assess the value of handedness score as an indicator of neuronal function in predicting unexplained infertility (UI).
Fifty female patients with UI, 50 male patients with UI, 50 fertile female controls and 50 fertile male controls were evaluated in terms of handedness score obtained by using Edinburgh Handedness Inventory. Association between the score and the UI cases was assessed.
Mean age of the female study population was 27.1 ± 3.4 years. Groups were comparable in terms of left/right handedness (12/38 vs. 15/35, p = 0.499). However comparison of mean handedness scores between the groups revealed a significant difference (64.6 vs. 74.2, p < 0.001). Handedness score was a significant predictor of UI among women patients (AUC = 0.749, p < 0.001). Optimal cut off value was obtained at a level of 72.5 with 80% sensitivity and 60% specificity. On the other hand, fertile and infertile male groups were comparable regarding left/right handedness (9/41 vs. 14/36 p = 0.235). Comparison of scores between groups revealed similar results (72.4 vs. 71.2, p = 0.663).
After screening for all the fertility diagnostic tests, handedness score that indirectly show the neuronal cascade function associated with the fertility problems may be used to confirm real UI in women.