Embarking on the journey of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) can be both exciting and overwhelming. While medical interventions are central to the process, many prospective parents overlook one crucial element that can significantly influence the outcome: preconception health. Optimising egg and sperm quality before IVF can improve the chances of success, and one of the most effective ways to support this is through targeted supplements. In this blog post, we’ll explore what to take before IVF and how supplements can boost your reproductive health and fertility outcomes.
Why Pre-IVF Preparation Matters
Egg and sperm development doesn’t happen overnight. In fact:
- Eggs take around 90 days to mature before ovulation.
- Sperm are regenerated approximately every 70–90 days.
This means the health choices you make three months before your IVF cycle can directly impact the quality of the egg and sperm used. Poor diet, high stress, smoking, alcohol, and exposure to toxins can all reduce fertility potential, while the right supplements can help repair, protect, and enhance your reproductive cells.
Key Supplements for Women Before IVF
- Prenatal Vitamins A high-quality prenatal vitamin is foundational. It ensures you’re getting adequate amounts of essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and B vitamins. Look for; Folic acid or methylfolate (400 mcg daily): Crucial for preventing neural tube defects and supporting DNA synthesis.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) CoQ10 supports mitochondrial function, which is vital for energy production in cells, especially eggs, which are energy-intensive. Suggested dose: 200 mg per day
- Magnesium This essential nutrient is involved in over three hundred biochemical processes, essential for energy production and hormonal health. Suggested dose: Typically 200 - 400 mg per day.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA & EPA) Omega-3s support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and contribute to embryo development. Suggested dose: 3,000 mg per day
- Vitamin D Deficiency in vitamin D is common and linked to reduced fertility. Suggested dose: 2,500 IU per day, depending on current blood levels
- Cysteine A crucial nutrient to protect the developing egg and the womb environment. Suggested dose: 1,200mg mg per day
Key Supplements for Men Before IVF
Sperm quality, including count, motility, and morphology, plays a crucial role in embryo quality. Fortunately, male fertility is highly responsive to nutritional and lifestyle changes.
- Zinc Essential for testosterone production and sperm development. Suggested dose: 30 mg per day
- Vitamin C A powerful antioxidant that protects sperm from oxidative damage. Suggested dose: 1,000 mg per day
- L-Carnitine Amino acid that helps in energy production and is crucial for sperm motility. Suggested dose: 1,000 mg per day
- CoQ10 Just as with women, CoQ10 boosts mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative stress. Suggested dose: 200 mg per day
- Selenium Antioxidant that works synergistically with vitamin E. Suggested dose: 200 mcg per day
- Folate and B12 Essential for DNA synthesis and repair in sperm. Suggested dose: Folate 400 mcg, B12 50 mcg (methylated form preferred)
Lifestyle Tips to Complement Supplementation
Supplements alone won’t do the job if unhealthy habits remain. Here are additional ways to improve reproductive health before IVF:
- Eat a fertility-friendly diet: Rich in leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Reduce alcohol and caffeine: Both can impact hormone balance and sperm health. Avoid smoking and recreational drugs.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal function and reduce IVF success rates.
- Get quality sleep (7–9 hours per night).
- Exercise moderately: Avoid overtraining or complete inactivity.
When done right, supplements can be powerful allies in preparing your body for IVF. By focusing on egg and sperm quality well before your cycle begins, you're laying a stronger foundation for success.
Ready to take charge of your IVF journey? Start optimising your fertility health today with pre-Conceive.
