Supplements and Fertility

If you are trying to conceive, you have probably come across many fertility supplements promising to support egg quality, hormones, or reproductive health. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know what you actually need and whether taking more supplements is always better. 

In a recent conversation, our very own Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente discussed supplements and fertility and why choosing the right supplements should be an individualized decision. 

One of the most important things to understand is that "supplement" does not necessarily mean harmless or appropriate for everyone. Some supplements can have significant effects on the body, especially those that affect hormones. 

DHEA is a good example. Although it is available over the counter in the United States, DHEA is a hormone precursor that the body uses to produce testosterone. At CHR, DHEA is approached more like a medication and is considered based on a patient's individual hormone levels. 

The same idea applies to other supplements. For example, vitamin D supplementation may be appropriate when someone has a vitamin D deficiency, but taking extra vitamin D without a reason may not provide an additional benefit. Dr. Gayete-Lafuente explains that the goal of supplementation is to address a deficiency or something that is suboptimal, not simply to take more. 

Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Gayete also discussed antioxidants, which are commonly used in fertility care. Oxidative stress can contribute to cellular damage and has been studied in relation to changes in egg quality as we age. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a commonly used antioxidant. Antioxidants can also be found naturally in foods such as leafy greens, nuts, berries, and other fruits and vegetables, making a healthy, balanced diet an important part of overall reproductive health. 

With so many fertility supplements available online and in stores now, it can be tempting to create a long list of products to take "just in case." But there is no universal fertility supplement plan that is right for everyone. Instead, talk with your doctor about your individual needs before starting a new supplement. Your hormone levels, medical history, fertility goals, and other factors can all help determine whether a particular supplement makes sense for you. 

If you’re interested in learning more, click the link here to listen to the newest episode of The Egg Factor with Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. Sonia Gayete-Lafuente.