Enhancing In Vitro Naturally
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex medical procedure that is directed at treating infertility or the inability to conceive and become pregnant. While success rates vary by age and other individual factors, there are ways to optimize the chances of a positive outcome through nutritional support and supplementation. Certain nutritional supplements can enhance IVF treatment and facilitate pregnancy. Understanding the underlying cause of infertility is critical to incorporate proper supplement strategies. Explore 3 essential natural supplements with potential benefits to enhance success rates in IVF.
1. Give your eggs a boost with DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands in the body. DHEA can decline with age, so there are age-related benefits to supplementing during IVF treatment. DHEA may improve egg quality by influencing the ovarian follicles in cases of poor ovarian response (POR). In fact, studies in POR patients undergoing IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) taking DHEA have identified improved rates of ovarian response and pregnancy. The mechanism was thought to be secondary to DHEA stimulating the serum levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), evoking a positive response on follicular development and oocyte quality.
2. Melatonin’s not just for sleep
Melatonin is another naturally occurring hormone that regulates circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. Mainly used as a sleep agent, melatonin is also a potent antioxidant. Oxidative stress in the body, caused by free radicals that form from metabolism and external sources like pollution, cigarette smoking, and environmental toxins, adversely affects fertility. Melatonin, administered orally, can attract and recruit other antioxidant substances and scavenge the body for these cell-damaging molecules, curtailing the negative effects on fertility.
3. Load up on the antioxidant CoQ10
CoQ10, or ubiquinone, is a naturally produced antioxidant that cells use for growth, maintenance, and removal of free radicals. Levels of CoQ10 are known to decline with age as well. Research indicates that CoQ10 supplementation can preserve the follicle pool, promote oocyte maturation and ovulation, and restore mitochondrial activity in oocytes. When combined with DHEA, success rates can be even higher. Studies demonstrated that combination therapy was associated with a significantly increased antral follicular count (AFC) versus DHEA alone.
Taking charge of your IVF journey
IVF is a powerful tool for achieving pregnancy, and optimizing success may involve exploring natural supplements coupled with guidance from a healthcare team. Specific options, like DHEA, CoQ10, and melatonin, can potentially benefit reproductive health and pregnancy success rates. Having a discussion with a healthcare provider can determine individual recommendations and needs based on the medical history and cause of infertility. In addition, taking control with a personalized nutritional supplement plan can elevate the chances of a successful IVF outcome. Consult a healthcare provider today to determine how nutritional supplements can support overall well-being while potentially augmenting reproductive health and IVF success.
