Fertility can be an overwhelming journey, full of questions, emotions, and a wealth of information. As a naturopathic doctor with over 15 years of experience, I have had the privilege of guiding high-achieving women through their health journeys, helping them find balance, energy, and clarity. Whether you are beginning to think about starting a family or facing unexplained infertility, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into fertility and egg quality, and how to optimize your chances of conception naturally.
Where to Start with Fertility?
One of the best places to begin is by assembling a strong support team. Seeking the expertise of a naturopathic doctor can be a beneficial step in understanding and optimizing your fertility naturally. A team approach, including medical professionals who specialize in reproductive health, ensures that you are getting the best care possible.
Understanding Egg Quality
Egg quality refers to the ability of an oocyte (egg) to develop into a healthy baby. While age plays a significant role, it is not the only determining factor. Egg quality can vary from woman to woman and even from cycle to cycle. Unfortunately, we do not yet have a definitive test to measure egg quality. In some cases, women are given discouraging information about their fertility potential, but it’s important to remember that there are many ways to improve reproductive health.
Signs of Poor Egg Quality
Several factors can indicate diminished egg quality, including:
- A prolonged struggle to conceive
- Advanced maternal age
- A diagnosis of unexplained infertility
- Presence of an autoimmune condition
While these signs do not necessarily mean conception is impossible, they highlight the importance of optimizing overall health and lifestyle choices.
Taking the Next Steps After a Year of Trying
If you have been trying to conceive for a year without success or have been diagnosed with unexplained infertility, lifestyle modifications can be a game-changer. While not every problem can be eliminated, you do have control over your actions.
A healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial. One of the best dietary approaches for fertility is the Mediterranean diet, which includes:
- High-quality proteins
- Plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy fats
Additionally, it’s essential to avoid crash dieting or fasting, as these can negatively impact fertility. If weight management is a concern, seek the guidance of a professional trained in fertility-focused nutrition.
What to Avoid for Better Egg Quality
Alcohol consumption is one of the biggest factors that can impact egg quality and IVF success. While complete abstinence isn’t necessary, moderation is key:
- Keep alcohol consumption to fewer than four drinks per week.
- Avoid consuming more than four drinks in one sitting, as this has been shown to have detrimental effects on fertility.
How Long Does It Take to See Changes?
Positive changes can occur relatively quickly. Some individuals in my clinic begin a medicated IVF cycle just a week after making lifestyle adjustments. Research suggests that while the impact can be seen early, the longer you work on optimizing your health, the better the outcomes. A general guideline is to aim for at least six months of preconception care.
For example, folic acid, which is essential for a healthy pregnancy, should ideally be taken for five to six months before conception to build up in the bloodstream.
The Egg Development Timeline
Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have. However, during the final stages of development and release, lifestyle and environmental factors significantly influence egg quality. This process takes approximately three to six months, which is why preconception care is so vital.
Supplements for Egg Quality & Fertility
Several supplements have been studied for their potential impact on fertility. However, it is important to be selective and avoid spending excessive money on unproven products. The following nutrients have shown evidence of supporting fertility:
- Vitamin D: In Canada, many women are deficient in vitamin D due to lack of sunlight. Ensuring adequate levels is crucial for overall health and fertility.
- Prenatal Vitamins: These provide essential nutrients, with folic acid being the most critical for early pregnancy.
- CoQ10: This supplement has been linked to an increase in pregnancies, though research does not show a significant impact on live birth rates.
- Melatonin: Research supports its role in increasing both pregnancy and live birth rates. Many women are hesitant to take melatonin due to concerns about dependency, but studies indicate it may be beneficial for fertility.
Final Thoughts: Personalized Fertility Care
The best fertility strategy is one tailored to your unique health history and needs. While online resources can be helpful, a personalized assessment by a professional ensures that you receive accurate information and the best possible guidance.
Another critical factor is your partner’s health. Fertility is a team effort, and understanding both partners’ health profiles can lead to better outcomes.
About Dr. Lisa Adams
Dr. Lisa Adams is a naturopathic doctor Mississauga and Newmarket and a dedicated advocate for women’s health and happiness. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in fertility, pregnancy, and children’s health, guiding women to create hormonal harmony throughout their lives. Inspired by her personal experiences with health challenges during motherhood, she is passionate about helping women transition from fertility fears to feeling fully energized and supported on their journey.
When she’s not leading women and families in health, Dr. Lisa enjoys sipping a good cup of coffee, cooking, or hiking in nature with her ten-year-old daughter.
If you’re looking for personalized guidance on your fertility journey, connect with Dr. Lisa Adams to take the next steps toward optimizing your reproductive health and overall well-being.
