If you are facing challenges with infertility, it's likely that you're trying to enhance your possibilities of conception—that might look like undergoing treatments, maintaining a nutritious diet, or trying to steer clear of alcohol. Kudos to you for doing an excellent job!
Another option to consider is fertility vitamins and supplements. While these may not directly increase your chances of getting pregnant, they can provide essential support to your body's overall health, which is advantageous when trying to conceive. That said, it's always important to consult with your healthcare provider before adding anything new to your regimen.
Also, bear in mind that not all vitamins and supplements are made the same, and some could potentially cause more harm than benefit. In the following section, we'll delve into some that have been known to be beneficial for fertility and a few you might want to skip.
Folic acid is one of the most important supplements for women who are trying to conceive. This B vitamin (B9, specifically) plays a vital role in the development of a baby’s neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord. This link was discovered as early as the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that recommendations were made that women take folic acid if they were pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of congenital disorders that could be detrimental to the health of the baby. Professionals recommend that women take 400-800mcg of folic acid every day, preferably prior to conception. However, it's crucial to validate this with a medical practitioner before starting this treatment.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant found in every cell in the body, and it helps convert food into energy. Antioxidants such as CoQ10 help protect the body against free radicals, and research suggests that CoQ10 may enhance fertility by improving egg quality and quantity, especially in women over the age of 35. Check with your doctor if you think this supplement might be a good fit for you.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining fertility health. Supplementing with vitamin D can improve hormone balance and overall reproductive health. And low vitamin D levels have been linked to ovulatory infertility, lower pregnancy rates, and an increased risk of pregnancy complications. Please consult your medical practitioner for your exact vitamin D needs; but generally, women trying to conceive should aim for a vitamin D level of at least 30 ng/mL.
Prenatal vitamins support both mother and baby's health during pregnancy. They are specifically designed to address the increased nutritional needs of pregnant women and they contain key nutrients, like iron and calcium.
Iron is a crucial component of prenatal vitamins as it aids in the development of the placenta and fetus. It also helps prevent anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, which can lead to fatigue and other complications during pregnancy.
Calcium is another vital nutrient, playing a significant role in the development of your baby's bones, teeth, heart, nerves, and muscles. It also helps keep the mother's bones strong, preventing bone density loss during pregnancy.
While prenatal vitamins might be a great way to catch up on any nutrients you may be lacking, they should never take the place of a healthy, balanced diet. And as always, it’s important to consult with your medical provider before adding new vitamins to your routine.
Not all supplements are safe or effective for fertility. High doses of vitamin A may be toxic and lead to congenital disabilities. Some herbal supplements like St. John's Wort and Echinacea can interfere with fertility drugs and might decrease their effectiveness. It's crucial to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially if you're trying to conceive.
Vitamins and supplements may be a helpful resource for those on a pregnancy journey. However, it's essential to do your homework and have a close collaboration with your healthcare provider to ensure the best treatment for your specific situation. Always remember, individual needs vary and personalizing your approach is key to success.
At VFP+ we are invested in your overall health and wellbeing, and believe treatment is enhanced when patients receive the support and compassion they need. We take care to select the best supplements possible to support your fertility and general wellness. Learn more about our offerings today.