If you’re trying to get pregnant, you may be considering taking fertility supplements to help. Although vitamins and minerals are essential for both men and women when trying to conceive, some specific nutrients can boost fertility in women. Here are five natural fertility supplements women need to know about.
1. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for many bodily functions, including hormone production and regulation. A lack of vitamin D has been linked to a higher risk of infertility, so it’s essential to ensure you’re getting enough. The best way to get vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight, but if you don’t get enough sun or trying to conceive during the winter months, a supplement can be beneficial.
2. Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a nutrient that helps support cellular energy production. It’s found in every cell in the body but is mainly concentrated in the mitochondria, which produce energy in cells. Several studies have found that CoQ10 supplementation can improve egg quality and increase fertility in women with mitochondrial disorders.
3. Iron
Iron is an essential mineral for overall health and vital for women trying to conceive. That’s because iron is necessary for carrying oxygen in the blood, and a lack of iron can lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue and other problems. If your iron levels are low, your doctor may recommend an iron supplement.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in everything from brain function to inflammation. They’re also crucial for reproductive health; omega-3s have been shown to improve egg quality and reduce the risk of miscarriage. So if you don’t eat fish regularly, taking an omega-3 supplement may be helpful when trying to conceive.
5. Folic Acid
Folic acid is essential for developing the neural tube, which becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord. It’s recommended that all women of childbearing age take a daily supplement of 400 micrograms of folic acid, especially if they’re trying to get pregnant.
Prenatal Health And Wellness Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy
Eating a healthy diet, taking a daily multivitamin, and exercising regularly are crucial for maintaining good health during pregnancy. But if you’re trying to conceive, you can take extra steps to boost your fertility and improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Quit Smoking.
If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your fertility and overall health. However, smoking decreases egg quality and quantity, and it also increases the risk of miscarriage and other problems. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy or other cessation programs.
Limit Alcohol Intake.
Although it’s unclear how much alcohol is safe to consume during pregnancy, it’s generally recommended that pregnant women limit their intake to one or two drinks per week. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s probably best to abstain from alcohol altogether.
Manage Stress Levels.
Stress can negatively impact fertility by affecting hormone levels and disrupting the menstrual cycle. If you’re feeling stressed, try relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. And if you’re having trouble conceiving, consider seeking help from a fertility specialist.
Get to a Healthy Weight.
Being overweight or underweight can make it more difficult to conceive. Aim for a BMI in the normal range (18.5-24.9) if you’re trying to get pregnant.
Avoid Environmental Toxins.
Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants has been linked to decreased fertility. To reduce your exposure, avoid pesticides and other toxic substances, and don’t drink or swim in water that may be contaminated.
Keep Your Legs Uncrossed.
Crossing your legs may seem harmless, but it can decrease blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, impacting fertility. So if you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to keep your legs uncrossed as much as possible.
Take a Prenatal Vitamin With Folic Acid.
Folic acid is essential for developing the neural tube, which becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord. All women of childbearing should take a daily supplement of 400 micrograms of folic acid, but it’s essential for women trying to get pregnant.
Get Regular Exercise.
Exercise is good for your overall health and can improve fertility. That’s because regular exercise helps to regulate hormone levels and the menstrual cycle. If you’re trying to conceive, aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Stay Hydrated.
Dehydration can cause problems with the menstrual cycle and reduce cervical mucus, making it more difficult to conceive. So make sure you drink plenty of fluids, especially water, daily.
Talk to Your Doctor.
If you’re having trouble conceiving, talk to your doctor about fertility testing and treatment options. With today’s advances in reproductive technology, there are many ways to help couples struggling to get pregnant.
Conclusion
If you’re trying to get pregnant, natural fertility supplements can be beneficial. Be sure to talk with your doctor first, but some nutrients that may help include vitamin D, CoQ10, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Getting enough of these nutrients through diet and exposure to sunlight is ideal, but supplements can also be helpful if needed.
