Taking supplements that help prevent nutrient deficiencies and antioxidant imbalances is important when trying to conceive. These natural fertility supplements can boost your odds of becoming pregnant.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect DNA from damage caused by free radicals. It can also reduce oxidative stress and enhance egg quality in women.”

Vitamin D

Natural supplements for fertility are substances derived from plants, herbs, and other natural sources that may help improve reproductive health and increase the chances of conception. While they’re not guaranteed to work for everyone, they can offer an honest and sometimes effective approach to boosting fertility.

Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that promotes bone health and may boost female fertility and sperm quality. It is present in various foods, such as liver, fortified breakfast cereals, margarine, eggs, and spinach. In addition, you can take vitamin D as a dietary supplement or as part of prenatal vitamins.

Folate

It is found naturally in many foods, and supplemental folic acid has been shown to improve fertility in women and increase fetal implantation during IVF.

Other nutrients important for fertility include vitamin E, calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, and iodine. Folic acid is commonly added to prenatal vitamins.

Eat a diet rich in wholesome fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Opt for full-fat dairy products over low-fat options. Also, add in whole grains and healthy oils like avocado and olive.

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ-10, is a natural antioxidant stored in your mitochondria. It helps your cells generate energy and slow aging.

It also protects your heart from the early stages of cardiovascular disease by lowering oxidative stress. It can also help prevent migraines and improve physical performance.

You can get CoQ-10 from food or supplements but talk with your doctor before taking it. It may interfere with certain medications, including the blood thinner warfarin. And it’s not safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Vitex

A natural infertility remedy, vitex (Vitex agnus castus) is an ancient herb traditionally used to reduce PMS and menopausal symptoms and improve fertility. Research shows that it can help to balance prolactin, reduce shortened luteal phases, and correct estrogen and progesterone imbalances.

Chaste berries may help reduce endometriosis symptoms by balancing hormonal influences when tissue grows outside the uterus.

Vitamin B12 and folic acid usually get the most attention, but the entire B-complex is important for cellular health and fertility. 

Acetyl L-carnitine

Although various factors can affect fertility, some supplements have been shown to support both male and female reproductive health. Vitamin B12 has been proven to increase ovulation and pregnancy rates for women.

In men, studies show that acetyl L-carnitine increases sperm count and motility. One study found that when acetyl L-carnitine was taken with clomiphene citrate, it significantly increased ovulation and pregnancy rates in PCOS patients.

Other studies have found that acetyl L-carnitine helps reduce nerve pain from diabetes (diabetic neuropathy). It also improves egg health and hormone balance in women.

NAC

NAC has antioxidant and cytoprotective properties, which favor maintaining cell redox balance. It is, therefore, a candidate for therapy of diseases that link oxidative stress to their etiology and progression.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) can help detoxify the liver and improve insulin sensitivity, particularly in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and unexplained infertility. It also enhances ovarian function and stimulates ovulation in women with PCOS.

NAC is available as an oral supplement or inhaler, but be sure to consult your doctor before using it, especially if you have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners. It has a strong smell and may cause stomach upset.

Melatonin

Many things can affect fertility, so focusing on those you can control is important. Nutrition and supplements are a great place to start!

Melatonin is an antioxidant that limits egg oxidation, improving egg quality and leading to higher fertility outcomes.5

Studies show melatonin can help regulate menstrual cycle hormones and promote ovulation in irregular-cycle women. However, working with a naturopathic doctor is important to determine your appropriate dosage. Taking too much can suppress ovulation and cause hormonal imbalances.

L-tryptophan

Although the B vitamins get a lot of attention, the entire suite of B-complex vitamins are needed for fertility. Vitamin E, for example, is a strong antioxidant that supports healthy cell function in both women and men.

L-tryptophan is an amino acid also needed to synthesize nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and NAD phosphate (NADP). It’s important to note that dietary supplement products may not list L-tryptophan as a separate ingredient but as a niacin equivalent.

Maca root is a popular herb marketed as an aphrodisiac and fertility supplement, but research on the effects of this herb needs to be more conclusive.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that includes eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). They are known to aid in fertility issues in both men and women.

Inositol is a well-known supplement that supports hormone health and ovulation in women. It also has a positive impact on male fertility and sperm health. You can find it in cruciferous vegetables, bananas, fruits, and legumes. Selenium is another well-studied nutrient with proven benefits for fertility.

Calcium

Often found in multivitamins, this important vitamin supports fertility in women by helping to ensure healthy sperm and uterine lining. (2)

Folic acid, which works with other B vitamins, is vital for fetal development and preventing congenital disabilities. It is available as a dietary supplement and in food fortification.

CoQ10 has been shown to increase fertility in women by thickening the uterine lining. Maca root, an herb from cruciferous vegetables, may also improve fertility in men by improving sperm concentration and motility. (2, 3)