The journey toward parenthood has seen a surge in increased interest in natural supplements and complementary therapies, especially among couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. While IVF procedures have offered hope to many struggling with infertility, there’s a growing curiosity about whether incorporating natural supplements into the process can enhance its success rates. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Role of Natural Supplements
In vitro fertilization involves the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the body in a lab setting. This method has helped many couples worldwide become parents, overcoming various infertility challenges such as blocked fallopian tubes, male factor infertility, and unexplained infertility. Since 1978, IVF has resulted in over 10 million babies worldwide.
Natural supplements, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies have gained attention for their potential to support fertility and improve reproductive outcomes. Many of these supplements may offer benefits such as enhanced egg quality or increased chances of conception.
Common Natural Supplements for Fertility
These are the most common supplements used for their potential to support reproductive health and fertility:
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is an antioxidant that supports mitochondrial function and may improve egg quality¹ in women undergoing fertility treatments.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil and certain plant sources, omega-3s can help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation and support overall reproductive health in both men and women.
- Vitamin D: Consuming enough vitamin D is associated with better fertility outcomes², including higher pregnancy rates and improved embryo implantation.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): DHEA supplementation may benefit women with diminished ovarian reserve³ by improving their response to fertility medications.
- Folic acid: Folic acid is essential for healthy fetal development⁴ and may reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Health care professionals often recommend it to women trying to conceive.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that may improve sperm quality and motility in men. While studies showed⁵ it didn’t have much difference in success compared to a placebo, it did have “a statistically significantly higher live-birth rate, and there was a trend toward better results in other IVF parameters.”
- L-arginine: L-arginine⁶ is an amino acid that can improve blood flow to the reproductive organs. L-arginine is converted, once in the body, to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps blood vessels to open wider, improving the flow of blood. Because of this, the supplement may improve the chance of conceiving for men and women.
- Maca root: Maca root is an adaptogenic herb that may regulate hormones⁷ and improve fertility in men and women.
- Myo-inositol: Myo-inositol is a type of sugar alcohol that can improve egg quality⁸ and ovarian function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Acetyl-L-carnitine: Acetyl-L-carnitine⁹ is an amino acid derivative that may improve sperm quality and function in men.
What to Consider Before Taking Supplements
When considering natural supplements in conjunction with IVF treatment, there are several key points to keep in mind:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
First and foremost, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re trying to conceive. They can offer personalized advice based on your medical history, specific fertility challenges and IVF treatment plan.
Safety and Quality
Not all supplements are created equal. To ensure they’re pure and strong, choose high-quality supplements from reputable manufacturers. Look for supplements that have undergone third-party testing. Some supplements have even been found to contain prescription medications.
Interactions With Medications
Inform your doctor about all the supplements you are taking, as they may interact with the IVF treatment. Certain supplements can affect hormone levels or blood clotting, potentially impacting the success of your IVF treatment.
It’s crucial to be aware of this as hormone imbalances can result in various medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), when women produce high levels of male hormones, affecting the menstrual cycle and causing weight gain.
Potential Benefits
Some natural supplements may have fertility benefits. However, the extent of their effectiveness in improving IVF outcomes may vary from person to person.
Timing and Dosage
The timing and dosage of supplements can impact their effectiveness and safety. Follow the recommended dosage instructions. For example, you should take iron supplements in the morning¹⁰, without food or coffee, while you should avoid taking other supplements on an empty stomach. Avoid excessive dosing, as it can lead to adverse effects or interactions with other medications.
Weigh the Options
Natural supplements have emerged as a popular tool in combination with IVF, offering hope to couples seeking to optimize their chances of conniving. However, it’s essential to approach supplementation with caution, seeking guidance from health care professionals.
