Folic acid: the magic nutrient to support a healthy pregnancy

One of the most important steps to consider when trying for a baby is making sure you’re taking the recommended amount of folic acid each day. Folic acid has been proven to reduce the risk of defects in babies, like spina bifida. All women who are trying to conceive are advised to take a daily supplement of 0.4 mg (400 micrograms) of folic acid. Start taking it before you even conceive and continue throughout the first three months of pregnancy.

Folic acid isn’t just important for preventing birth defects; it also plays a vital role in the development of a baby’s brain and spinal cord. It helps with the proper formation of DNA, which is responsible for cell growth and development.

The good news is that folic acid is easy to get and doesn’t break the bank. You can buy it over the counter without a prescription. However, if you’ve had a baby with a neural tube defect, experienced three or more miscarriages, or have epilepsy and take medication, you should increase your folic acid dosage to 5 mg. In this case, you’ll need a prescription.

Inofolic: a supplement for enhanced fertility

For women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Inofolic might be just what you need. PCOS often messes with your hormones and can hinder fertility, but Inofolic contains both folic acid and myo-inositol, which helps regulate hormonal and metabolic disorders.

By increasing insulin sensitivity, promoting weight loss, and improving the quality of eggs and embryos, Inofolic has been shown to boost fertility outcomes. It also reduces the risk of Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome (OHSS) and has the added bonus of decreasing your chances of gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

Another great thing about Inofolic is that it’s made from plants. It’s gluten-free and lactose-free, so it’s perfect for those with specific dietary requirements. Unlike other supplements out there, it won’t give you uncomfortable side effects like cramps, bloating, or diarrhoea. It’s a gentle and effective option for maximising your fertility journey.

Multi-vitamins: giving fertility a nutritious boost

While a healthy diet should ideally provide all the necessary vitamins and minerals, adding supplements to your routine can boost your fertility chances. Some nutrients have specific benefits for fertility. Vitamin E, selenium, and zinc support healthy sperm production, function, and motility. Magnesium helps with sperm production and regulates blood flow to the reproductive organs. Manganese, vitamins A, K and D act as antioxidants, protecting both eggs and sperm. L-carnitine increases sperm motility.

You can take individual vitamin and mineral supplements, or you can simplify things by opting for a multi-vitamin that combines several nutrients. Just make sure to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to get the right dosage and quality.

At Leicester Fertility Centre, we don’t endorse any specific brand of multi-vitamin. But we do recommend buying from a trustworthy UK company to ensure product safety and effectiveness. Your wellbeing is our priority, and we want to make sure you’re getting the best support on your fertility journey.

Health and diet: fuelling your body

Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is crucial for overall wellbeing and fertility. A nutritious diet can help with conception and provide nourishment for a developing baby. We encourage you to make mindful choices that prioritise your health and the health of your future little one.

To optimise your diet, include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily meals. Leafy greens rich in folic acid are especially beneficial. And don’t forget to stay hydrated! Aim for 8-10 cups of water per day to help eliminate waste and improve cervical fluid quality.

While occasional treats are fine, try to limit your caffeine intake. Research shows that too much caffeine can hinder foetal growth by narrowing blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the womb. It’s recommended to keep your intake to under 300mg per day.

Exercise is not only great for relieving stress, but it also helps with maintaining a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour of moderate activity most days of the week. Swimming, walking and dancing are all fun ways to get moving.

Gut health: finding harmony in your tummy

Recent studies suggests that your gut health can impact your reproductive wellbeing. Your gut microbiome, which is made up of trillions of bacteria and microorganisms, influences everything from digestion to immune function. Imbalances in the gut microbiome can lead to inflammation, hormone imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles. It can also decrease sperm quality and reduce the chances of successful conception. To improve your gut health and enhance fertility, focus on eating a balanced diet with whole foods and fermented foods that promote beneficial gut bacteria.

Adding probiotics and prebiotics to your routine can also help restore the balance of gut bacteria. These supplements provide essential support and nourishment for a healthy gut.

The impact of smoking and alcohol on fertility

If you and your partner are trying to conceive, it’s strongly advised to quit smoking. Cigarette and marijuana smoking not only disrupt ovulation but also reduce sperm count and quality, significantly decreasing fertility. In certain cases, the chances of successful treatments like IVF can drop by up to 40%.

Smoking also increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and sudden infant death. We know quitting smoking is tough, but there’s help available to support you on your journey.

Excessive alcohol consumption can also harm fertility. It can damage sperm and eggs, making conception more difficult. To give yourself the best chance of getting pregnant, the Department of Health recommends avoiding alcohol altogether if you’re trying to conceive or already pregnant.

Recent studies have shown that consuming more than 1-2 units of alcohol per day during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight, preterm birth and infants being small for their age. It’s safest to abstain from alcohol completely during pregnancy.

For men, it’s best to limit alcohol intake to 3-4 units per week when trying to conceive. By being mindful of your alcohol consumption, you’re putting your health and the health of your future baby first.

Weight and body mass index: striving for balance

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for optimal fertility. Being overweight or underweight can disrupt ovulation and reduce fertility. If you’re carrying extra weight, it’s especially important to focus on achieving a healthy balance.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of ovulation problems in overweight women. The good news is that even a short-term weight loss can restore ovulation and improve the success rate of treatments like IVF.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a helpful tool to determine if you’re underweight, at a healthy weight, overweight, or obese. Aim for a BMI within the healthy range to optimise your fertility.

Try to adopt a healthy, balanced lifestyle for 3-6 months before trying to conceive and continue throughout your pregnancy. By prioritising your wellbeing and aiming for a healthy weight, you’re setting yourself up for a successful fertility journey.

Conclusion:

Preparing for parenthood involves a comprehensive approach that considers various factors to increase your chances of conceiving and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Prioritising folic acid supplementation and considering supplements like Inofolic can make a big difference in your fertility. But don’t forget that a healthy diet, lifestyle choices, and maintaining a balanced weight are just as important.

At Leicester Fertility Centre, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality care with a compassionate and supportive approach. We welcome patients from all backgrounds and aim to offer excellent success rates and affordable options to everyone. Located conveniently in the heart of the UK, we’re here to support you on your fertility journey.