Written by Rhiannon Davis. Reviewed by Jenny Wordsworth. 

This is a common question we hear from our OVUM customers, especially those starting their journey with our preconception supplements. We asked our experts to share their insights on how long it typically takes to notice the benefits of fertility supplements, particularly when you're preparing to conceive.

How long do fertility supplements take to work?

The effects of supplements can vary depending on several factors, but many people start to notice subtle changes within the first few weeks. While it might take longer to see the full impact, such as improvements in cycle regularity or ovulation, early signs like increased energy or mood improvements can often be felt sooner.

Even if you don’t experience a complete transformation right away, these early changes often indicate that your body is responding to the extra support. It's essential to be patient, as the journey toward optimal fertility health is gradual.

Why it might take longer to feel the effects

Everyone’s fertility journey is unique, and so is how quickly supplements take effect. This can depend on where your nutrient levels are when you begin. If your levels are lower, it may take longer to notice significant improvements. Think of your body’s nutrient levels like a reservoir: if the tank is nearly empty, it will take some time to fill it to the point where your body has adequate levels of those nutrients to improve egg health, cycle regularity, or hormone balance.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, but seeing more noticeable improvements after a month or two of consistent use is common. 

Unexpected improvements in your health

Interestingly, you might notice positive changes in areas you weren’t expecting. Your body is clever and prioritises the nutrients where they're needed most. For example, if you start taking CoQ10 to support egg health, you might notice improvements in your energy levels or cognitive function before seeing the desired fertility benefits. That’s because your body is first sending those nutrients to vital organs like your brain or heart. Once your key systems are well-supported, the focus will shift to reproductive health.

Why some nutrients take longer to show effects

Some nutrients take longer to build up in the body before showing results. For example, improving egg quality can take around 90 days, as the egg maturation process takes several months. Sperm takes 74 days on average to mature, so this is the window to improve sperm health. Similarly, if you’re low in Vitamin D and take supplements to support fertility and overall health, it might take time for those levels to rise depending on how low your Vitamin D levels were to begin with, pollution levels where you are and how your body absorbs it. Vitamin D3, the natural form, can raise Vitamin D levels in the bloodstream in about 24 hours. However, it can take up to 7 days for this to convert into the active form of Vitamin D, which is the one that a blood test can detect. 

Fertility is an intricate process, and supporting your body with the proper nutrients can make a huge difference, but it requires consistency and patience.

Does dosage affect how long supplements take to work?

One of the most common challenges we see is customers not taking the proper doses or not being consistent with their supplement intake. Taking the correct dose daily is crucial to give your body the support it needs, especially during the TTC (trying to conceive) journey. If you're unsure about what dose is correct for you, speak to a nutritionist so they can factor in your personal health needs.

So, what makes Time to Conceive® different?

The supplement is formulated using the most bioavailable nutrients at scientifically backed doses, which have been demonstrated to be the optimal levels for effectively supporting egg health. It is also patented, providing the most scientifically advanced and bioavailable form of CoQ10 available.

What else can I do to help aid the process?

Other helpful lifestyle changes include eating a healthy diet with antioxidant-rich foods,  maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, staying active with regular exercise, and moderating caffeine and alcohol intake.

When should I start taking Time to Conceive®?

OVUM recommends starting Time to Conceive® as soon as you begin trying to conceive, ideally three months beforehand, as this is how long it takes for an egg to fully mature before ovulation. However, it's never too late to start.

If you're undergoing IVF, OVUM’s medical team suggest taking Time to Conceive® for 3-4 months before treatment and continuing through egg collection, transfer, and until you receive a positive pregnancy test or hCG results.

For those preparing for an egg-freezing cycle, OVUM’s medical team recommends taking Time to Conceive® for 4-6 months before the collection process.

Key Takeaways:

• Subtle improvements (e.g., energy, mood) can be felt within a few weeks; more significant changes may take 1-2 months.

• Supplement effectiveness depends on individual nutrient levels and consistency of use.

• Unexpected benefits may occur as the body prioritises essential functions before fertility.

• The correct dosage and daily intake are essential for optimal results.

• OVUM uses bioavailable nutrients at scientifically backed doses for egg health support.

• Healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, limited caffeine/alcohol) further aid fertility.