The Effects of Ajwa Dates Consumption (Phoenix dactylifera L), on Ovarian Follicular Features with Transvaginal Ultrasound in Perimenopausal Women

Objective: Perimenopause is the transition from the reproductive period to menopause, marked by a decline in the number and
function of oocytes. Transvaginal ultrasound is a reliable method for assessing ovarian reserve. Ajwa dates (Phoenix dactylifera
L.) contain macro- and micronutrients, phenolics, and flavonoids, which have antioxidant potential that may improve ovarian
condition in perimenopausal women. This study aims to determine the effect of ajwa date consumption on ovarian follicle
characteristics assessed by transvaginal ultrasound in perimenopausal women.
Methods: This quasi-experimental pre-post control group study was conducted at RSIA Sitti Khadijah I Muhammadiyah
Makassar, Indonesia, from February to August 2023. A total of 44 perimenopausal women aged 42-48 years were randomly
assigned to intervention (n = 28) or control groups (n = 16). Ovarian follicle changes were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U
test.
Results: The intervention group showed a decrease in follicle number with an increase in follicle size, while the control group
showed an increase in follicle number and a decrease in size. These differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: Consumption of ajwa dates as an exogenous antioxidant can influence the number and size of antral follicles,
which serve as predictive indicators of menopausal transition.
Key words: Ajwa dates; Antral follicle; Perimenopause; Transvaginal ultrasound