Preconception Care to Optimize Fertility
Optimizing your health prior to conception is one of the best things you can do to support your fertility.
Preconception Nutrition
Proper nutrition is crucial to all stages of life, especially important for developing oocytes, even before conception occurs. Preconception care is best implemented at least 3 months prior to conception and continues throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Upon fertilization, an irreversible DNA blueprint is provided by the egg and sperm, and is used to guide the development of the baby throughout pregnancy. This blueprint is a reflection of the quality of the egg and sperm in the months leading up to conception.
–Folate: Most women are aware of the importance of folate during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. It is important to start taking folate if you are planing to conceive as most spinal column defects occur very early in pregnancy, often before women are aware of the pregnancy. I always recommend a good quality prenatal that contains folate over folic acid, as folic acid is a synthetic form of the natural B-vitamin found in foods, folate. You may also need a specific type of folate if you have tested positive for MTHFR.
–CoQ10 is a nutrient involved in ATP production within the mitochondria that supports healthy oocyte development and cellular division. CoQ10 is best taken in the preconception period, before pregnancy.
–Omega-3 Essential fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, are powerful nutrients that support brain and nervous system development. I often recommend this as an additional supplement during pregnancy as levels in prenatals are often insignificant, if present at all.
–Iron requirements increase during pregnancy as blood volume increases. I recommend checking iron levels prior to conception so that optimal levels are achieved at conception. It is important to check your levels through pregnancy, as many women need additional iron in 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Proper iron levels can also help support mom postpartum. Dosing is patient specific, and be sure to check with your integrative doctor to see if it is indicated before starting.
Optimizing Male Fertility
Specific nutrients have been indicated for male fertility and various aspects of sperm health and sperm quality. I recommend both partners run a hormone test and nutrient panel to identify any deficiencies that may be present and pose obstacles while trying to conceive. It may take several growth cycles to improve sperm quality, so it is best to address hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and make lifestyle changes at least 3-4 months prior to conception.
Fertility Lifestyle Tips
Maintain a Healthy Home:
The home is often a major source of exposure for a variety of different toxins and endocrine disruptors. Cleaning solutions, beauty products, laundry detergent, plastics, fragrances and more, all have an impact on our delicate hormonal symphony. Many of these common chemicals act as endocrine disruptors and interfere with hormone pathway signaling. Replacing traditional cleaning products with natural, fragrance-free options can help create a healthier space for you and your partner prior to and during pregnancy. A high-quality HEPA air filter can help remove pollutants, dust, chemicals, metals and pathogens from the air. We currently use Austin Air at my home and office in Monterey.
Detoxification:
It is not a good idea to complete a detox close to or during pregnancy. Our bodies detoxify substances by releasing them into the bloodstream to be excreted through sweat, urine, and feces. During pregnancy, your blood, and therefore toxins, will also be shared with your growing fetus. I recommend a targeted detox protocol at least a year prior to conception so that your body can properly clear these toxins from the body before your oocyte starts developing.
Consult with a Natural Fertility Specialist:
It is best to work with a Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist 6-12 months before trying to conceive. Optimizing your health before pregnancy can help promote a healthy pregnancy, healthy baby and healthy mother throughout the process. If you are already further along in your fertility journey, there is no better time to start fertility or prenatal care!
Dr. Allison Serrano is a Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist that specializes in fertility, preconception, and prenatal care in Monterey, California. Book an appointment today!
