Collagen: a review of literature and potential applications in gynecological practice

Collagen, a major structural protein in the human body, has long been considered primarily in the context of skin, joint, and connective tissue health. Recent years have seen a significant increase in interest in the systemic effects of collagen, expanding the range of its potential applications, including gynecological practice.

The aim. Comprehensively analyze current scientific data on the use of hydrolyzed collagen in medicine, with an emphasis on the rationale for its use in gynecological practice.

This review provides a detailed examination of the fundamental aspects of collagen, including its biochemistry, digestibility, safety, antioxidant properties, and its role in stimulating extracellular matrix synthesis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Medline, and eLibrary for the period 2000–2024. Inclusion criteria for the review included randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and relevant experimental studies in English and Russian. Based on a systematization of scientific literature, three key promising areas for the use of collagen in gynecological practice have been identified: the combined use of oral collagen hydrolysate supplements with energy-based therapies in the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause in women; the correction of menopausal metabolic disorders, targeting key pathogenesis factors: inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 to improve insulin sensitivity, regulation of lipid metabolism in the liver and adipose tissue, and reduction of systemic inflammation; and nutritional support of bone metabolism in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis. Hydrolyzed collagen, going beyond nutricosmetics, represents a promising multi-target therapeutic agent for comprehensively improving the quality of life of peri- and postmenopausal women.

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