In this blog we’ll review frequently taken supplements before and during fertility treatments and IVF, alongside any evidence to back them up.

When starting IVF, there’s only one outcome we all hope for, a quick positive pregnancy test. The less egg retrievals and transfers required, the better. So what can we do to achieve this? Alongside lifestyle changes, you may be considering adding supplements to your routine to ensure you’re at your healthiest, as well as to optimise your egg quality before IVF. But the supplements you should take, if any, all come down to the individual circumstances that have led you to trying fertility treatments. Join us as we review the data.

Antioxidants for Enhanced Fertility

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of nutrients that can be classified as antioxidants. These antioxidants play a critical role in mitigating oxidative damage, potentially influencing fertility outcomes. We’ve listed just some of these below:

Vitamin C - found in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as in strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers.

Vitamin E - present in nuts and seeds such as almonds, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts, as well as in spinach and avocado.

Selenium - found in Brazil nuts, seafood (such as tuna and shrimp), whole grains, and legumes.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - naturally produced by the body and also found in foods like oily fish (such as salmon and mackerel), organ meats (like liver), and whole grains.

Zinc - Found in foods like oysters, beef, poultry, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Research suggests that antioxidants could increase live birth rates for women facing infertility challenges. Notably, CoQ10 emerges as a promising ally in this journey to boost pregnancy rates. While more research is warranted, these findings offer hopeful possibilities.

Vitamins: Are they the building blocks for conception?

Choosing the right preconception vitamin is an important decision. The best preconception vitamins and supplements usually contain a combination of key nutrients essential for supporting the health of the mother whilst also focusing on egg quality. These include Vitamin B12, Methylfolate and Vitamin D.

Drawing on research by Dr. Audrey Gaskins into serum B12 and folate levels during IVF, alongside meta-analyses into Vitamin D and fertility, OVUM’s Time to Conceive formulation is crafted to align with increased chances of a successful outcome during fertility treatments, including IVF cycles. In fact, we’re backed by over 550 clinical studies and pieces of research and meet or exceed the necessary levels of vitamins needed to improve chances of conception.

What about Omega-3 during fertility treatments?

Omega-3 fatty acids (commonly found in fish oil) have inflammatory properties which can help decrease inflammation in the ovaries. This in turn impacts fertility through assisting with healthy reproductive activity. In one study, they found that women taking omega 3 supplements had 1.5 x the probability of conception vs those not taking the supplements.

Tailored Folate Support for Environmental Challenges

For individuals facing heightened exposure to traffic-related air pollution, additional folate supplementation could prove beneficial. Dr. Gaskins' research underscores the importance of addressing environmental factors to enhance the likelihood of a successful IVF journey. OVUM’s supplement contains 800mg of MTHFR-Friendly Methylfolate in its highest bioavailable active form. NHS guidance isn’t up-to-date with the latest research and we’re hoping to change that.

DHEA & Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Women confronting diminished ovarian reserve or poor ovarian response may find hope in DHEA supplementation. Studies suggest its potential to improve egg retrieval outcomes and increase pregnancy rates. While more research is necessary, DHEA holds promise as a supportive intervention.

Key Takeaways

• Antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, CoQ10, and Zinc may improve fertility outcomes by reducing oxidative damage.
• CoQ10 shows promise in increasing live birth rates for infertility, but more research is needed.
• Preconception vitamins with Vitamin B12, Methylfolate, and Vitamin D support maternal health and egg quality during fertility treatments like IVF.
• Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements can reduce ovarian inflammation and enhance reproductive health, potentially aiding conception.
• Additional folate, especially MTHFR-Friendly Methylfolate, may benefit those exposed to high pollution levels, improving IVF success.
• DHEA supplementation may help women with diminished ovarian reserve or poor ovarian response, but further research is required to confirm its effectiveness.

At OVUM, we believe in empowering you with evidence-based support on your fertility journey. Our formulations are meticulously crafted to provide the nutrients your body needs, backed by the latest scientific research. Remember, this journey is unique to you, and we're here to provide personalised guidance and unwavering support every step of the way.