How Vitamins Can Support IVF

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most successful forms of artificial reproductive technology (ART) that fertility specialists can leverage to help people build or grow a family. While the critical step of fertilization relies on the lab, participants can also take smart steps to improve success rates not just with egg harvesting, but implantation after embryo transfer. Most experts will recommend adopting a healthier lifestyle ahead of an IVF cycle. Boosting nutrition by incorporating certain vitamins is a smart step in the right direction. Here is what women need to know.

Prenatal vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are typically at the top of the list and are multivitamins customized to specifically address the nutritional needs of pregnant people. For best results though, IVF participants should begin taking prenatal vitamins before starting a round. Standard nutrients like B complex, vitamin C, and even magnesium are present but prenatals include DHA and folic acid. Both are critical for fetal development and reduce complication risks. Taking prenatals before starting IVF can optimize nutritional levels and ensure that the uterus is a more ideal environment for implantation. Even men can take prenatal vitamins which are linked with improving sperm health.

Vitamin D

Most people think of vitamin D as an immunity supplement. However a lot of individuals have sunshine vitamin deficiencies. Yet, simply having low immunity isn’t the only risk. Vitamin D helps support bone health but can only be properly processed by the body if a person gets enough sun exposure. Along with bone health and immunity research suggests that getting enough vitamin D could possibly reduce the chances of babies developing autism.

Iron

Iron is another critical supplement that is heavily promoted during pregnancy. Not all prenatals provide sufficient iron levels, leading many practitioners to recommend taking an additional individual iron supplement. For women facing ovarian issues and undergoing IVF, low iron levels have been linked with impacting egg quality. So, adding an iron supplement might be a smart idea ahead of starting an IVF round which will include egg harvesting.

CoQ10

Antioxidants are an important part of nutrition and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is linked with preventing cell damage, and also regulating metabolism. IVF research suggests that the nutrient can improve egg health especially in groups that historically have lower success rates such as older women or people with poor ovarian reserve. A recent study suggested that CoQ10 supplementation could result in more clinical pregnancy results as compared to placebo groups.

Always seek an expert opinion

Vitamin supplements can seem like a second nature process and can even improve conception odds for groups that historically face lower success rates. Yet, people are encouraged to speak with a fertility specialist first since vitamin quality can vary and even underlying health concerns or other prescriptions can impact how a supplement performs.