If you’re preparing for in vitro fertilization, there’s a lot to think about. Maybe you and your partner have tried IVF before, or maybe this is your first cycle. It’s normal to struggle with anxiety and uncertainty before undergoing the procedure. For some women preparing for IVF, the road to becoming a parent has been long and challenging.
By choosing IVF, you’re making a substantial commitment. You want to ensure the best possible chance at a successful pregnancy, even if there are no guarantees. That’s why in the weeks and months leading up to your IVF treatment, you want to ensure your body is as healthy and fully prepared as it can be.
Here are three fertility vitamins and supplements to help give your body the nutrition it needs to support a new pregnancy.
1. Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins aren’t just for expecting mothers. They can benefit you if you’re hoping to become pregnant in the near future. At least 30 days before your IVF, start taking a prenatal vitamin. You can even take it up to six months before a scheduled IVF cycle. Prenatal vitamins will help increase your folic acid intake and can protect against spinal and brain birth defects.
Make sure your prenatal vitamin supplement contains DHA, which is an omega-3 fatty acid. DHA helps with fetus brain development and has also been shown to reduce the chance of preterm delivery.
2. Fish Oil
Fish oil is another supplement that contains omega-3 fatty acids, and can have a significant anti-inflammatory effect. Many researchers believe that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in healthy reproduction, sperm quality and natural conception. Studies have also associated high omega-3 fatty acid intake with improved IVF outcomes.
3. Vitamin D
Most people receive all the vitamin D they need from sunlight and their diet. If your vitamin D levels are low, this could negatively impact your chance of conceiving through IVF.
Before undergoing IVF, increase your vitamin D intake. Your fertility specialist will have a significantly greater chance of obtaining three or more high-quality embryos and implanting the embryo successfully.
Choosing the Right Fertility Vitamins for IVF Success
The FDA doesn’t regulate all supplements and vitamins. This means that the quality and purity of some options may be questionable. When choosing fertility vitamins, check with your doctor before adding any supplements to your routine.
Partner With the Best IVF Clinic in Southern California
If you’re considering an IVF procedure, work with fertility specialists who are more than just clinicians. At Western Fertility Institute, we’ll be there to offer emotional support, act as a sounding board for your concerns and answer all your questions. We can advise you on everything you need to know throughout your IVF process.
Our goal is to make a difference in your fertility journey. We care deeply about our intended parents and will not stop working until you’ve brought your child into the world.
Contact us today to learn more about in vitro fertilization and our other fertility treatments.
This content was medically reviewed by the Western Fertility Institute medical team on September 30, 2019.