ways to improve egg quality before pregnancy or IVF
DHEA Supplements
– Dehydro-epiandrosterone or DHEA is a mild, well-tolerated, male hormone that can have remarkable results for women with diminished ovarian reserve.Very low levels of androgens in the ovaries may result in reduced ovarian reserve and poor-quality eggs, which can be turned around to a small extent with the supplementation of DHEA, as several trials have proven.
The supplements can be taken as an oral dosage of 75mg-100mg (strictly after consultation with your doctor), for a period of at least 2 months before ovum pick-up is done. The actual effect is known to peak in 4-5 months.
Side effects, although rare, can be caused by the androgynous nature of DHEA. Some women may see acne, hair loss, abnormal growth of facial hair, etc. but even these tend to reverse as your hormones return to normal levels.
CoQ10 supplements
– CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) is an antioxidant that helps improve the quality of eggs. It acts as a nutrient for the mitochondria, which is the energy-house of human cells.As you age, the number of healthy mitochondria and levels of CoQ10 decline. CoQ10 supplements can boost the energy in your egg cells.
A Chinese study involving 169 women, found that the participants who were given CoQ10 supplements had a higher number of eggs retrieved, better fertilization rates, better embryo quality, and hence, better chances of a successful pregnancy.Glutathione
– Another powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and reduces the oxidative stress on your egg cells, resulting in healthier eggs and consequently, better embryos.L-arginine –
By helping improve the blood supply to the uterus and ovaries, L-arginine helps create a better environment for egg production and fertilization.Myo-Inositol
– PCOS often results in fertility problems as it causes the release of immature eggs, which cannot be fertilized well. Inositol supplements, especially when combined with Folic Acid, may improve your PCOS by reducing the level of triglycerides in the blood and improving ovarian function.As the insulin function improves the symptoms of PCOS get better and it may further help by promoting ovulation.
Administration of inositol and folic acid in anovulatory women, taken daily for 3 months, was found to induce ovulation in 62% of the women in this study.
Nutrition
– British researchers have found that female egg quality is affected by having too many refined carbohydrates, which break down quickly and cause a sudden spike in blood sugar.So, avoid excessive bread, pasta, processed foods, and sugar-rich foods.
It is recommended that you have a balanced diet that comprises less than 40% carbohydrates, at least 35% protein, and plenty of leafy greens, berries, and fruits that provide vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants.
Avoid smoking, caffeine, alcohol
– Nicotine is known to be toxic to your cells, including egg cells. Also, caffeine and alcohol, when consumed in excess can be harmful to your pregnancy.Exercise
– Improving oxygen-rich blood flow to the ovaries can help improve the quality of eggs. Exercising and drinking more water is the simplest way to achieve that.Obesity can compromise mitochondrial function and increase oxidative stress on your cells. Having a normal body mass index (BMI) helps improve your odds of conceiving successfully.
Manage stress
– While stress does not directly cause infertility, it can affect the quality of your eggs, causing them to function less. Prolonged stress also produces hormones such as cortisol and prolactin, which may interfere with normal ovulation.Acupuncture and Yoga
– Acupuncture and yoga can both reduce anxiety and stress, improve blood flow to the ovaries and help your body get rid of toxins—all factors that may, over time, result in improved egg quality and ovarian function.One of our own authors believes that acupuncture helps in conception as it did for her.
