Did you know that research has found multiple imbalances in your body may be connected to fertility challenges? These imbalances can be nutritional, hormonal, metabolic, or even influenced by environmental factors. If you’ve been trying to conceive for a while with no success, it may be worth exploring whether there are underlying issues contributing to infertility. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the key nutrients, hormones, metabolic markers, and lifestyle influences that research has found may play a role in female fertility. We’ll also explain how our clinic takes a comprehensive approach, including testing and natural therapies, to support women on their fertility journey.
Nutritional Factors in Female Fertility
Celiac Disease and Unexplained Infertility
It’s estimated that celiac disease (CD) may go undiagnosed in women with unexplained infertility. One 2013 study examined 170 infertile women and found that 2.9% tested positive for celiac disease (either classic or latent forms), a higher prevalence than in the general population. Interestingly, in a subgroup with unexplained infertility, the percentage rose to 10.3%. Researchers suggested that screening for undiagnosed celiac may help some women address fertility difficulties.
Key Trace Minerals
Trace metals such as copper, zinc, and selenium have been implicated in reproductive health. A 2023 cross-sectional study found that women with unexplained infertility had significantly lower levels of serum copper, zinc, and selenium compared to fertile controls. These micronutrients may support various reproductive processes, including egg quality and ovulatory function. Ensuring sufficient intake—whether from diet or supplementation under proper guidance—may be beneficial.
Iron Levels
Maintaining healthy iron stores is also important. One recent 2023 study reported that women with unexplained infertility more frequently had low iron levels, suggesting mild iron deficiency. The authors proposed that iron status “might be screened in the future” for unexplained infertility. Another 2023 investigation looked at iron intake in relation to ovarian reserve and noted that excessive supplemental iron (≥45 mg/day) was actually associated with lower antral follicle counts (an indicator of ovarian reserve). This underscores why personalized testing is crucial; blindly supplementing iron could be counterproductive if you do not truly need it.
Folate, Vitamin B12, and IVF Outcomes
When it comes to in vitro fertilization (IVF), folate (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 may be pivotal. A 2015 study of women undergoing IVF found that higher serum folate and B12 were associated with a greater probability of live birth. Folate and B12 help regulate homocysteine, an amino acid that may be detrimental to reproductive outcomes when elevated. Ensuring that these nutrients are at optimal levels before and during fertility treatments may positively impact IVF success rates.
Vitamin D and Infertility
Multiple studies have explored connections between vitamin D insufficiency and fertility. One 2023 population-based study found that women who had lower vitamin D were more likely to report difficulties conceiving. Additionally, a 2023 Swedish study reported that about 27% of women seeking IVF had insufficient vitamin D. Contributing factors included limited sun exposure, lack of supplementation, and certain dietary habits. Another 2023 investigation proposed that vitamin D intake may modify the negative association between household pesticide exposure and female infertility.
In summary, vitamin D may support ovarian function, immune regulation, and overall reproductive health. Checking your vitamin D status is a helpful step in assessing any potential gaps in your fertility plan.
Our Clinic’s Approach:
At our clinic, we can complete comprehensive nutritional testing to look at ferritin (iron storage), folate, B12, vitamin D, and other crucial nutrients. If we find deficiencies or imbalances, we may recommend dietary adjustments or targeted supplementation to help restore balance.
Environmental and Toxic Factors
Methylmercury and Selenium
Certain environmental toxins have been examined for their effects on fertility. A 2019 case-control study found that elevated methylmercury was linked to impaired female fertility, while adequate selenium had a protective effect. The data suggests that an antagonistic interaction may exist between methylmercury and selenium; in other words, selenium might help mitigate some adverse impacts of mercury. If you have a diet high in certain fish species known for higher mercury content, or if your environment exposes you to heavy metals, testing for these elements may be worthwhile.
C-Reactive Protein in IVF
Inflammation is another area of interest. A 2007 prospective study measured C-reactive protein (CRP) levels during IVF cycles and noted that higher baseline CRP was linked to lower IVF success. CRP is a well-known marker of systemic inflammation, suggesting that an inflammatory state in the body may influence embryo implantation or overall reproductive function.
Pesticides in the Home
Some data also points to a relationship between household pesticide exposure and infertility. A 2023 study found that women with higher vitamin D intake seemed less adversely affected by indoor pesticide exposure. While the authors note that more large-scale research is needed, their findings highlight how diet and environment can intersect to influence fertility.
Our Clinic’s Approach:
We can perform environmental toxin panels and inflammation marker testing (e.g., CRP) if indicated. Based on results, we might recommend strategies such as limiting exposure to certain chemicals, enhancing detox pathways via nutrition or natural therapies, and working to reduce inflammation through targeted dietary and lifestyle interventions.
Hormonal and Metabolic Factors
Insulin Resistance
Metabolic imbalances like insulin resistance could also influence fertility. A 2022 prospective cohort study found that insulin resistance was present in about 20% of non-PCOS infertile women. Those with insulin resistance were less likely to conceive following ovulation induction with clomiphene citrate, suggesting it may hinder ovarian response or egg quality. Evaluating fasting insulin, glucose, and other measures of blood sugar can be useful in capturing a complete metabolic snapshot.
Interestingly, a recent 2024 analysis indicated that elevated HbA1c was linearly correlated with increased risk of infertility, even when HbA1c was still within what is typically considered the normal range. Monitoring and optimizing blood sugar control may enhance the chances of conceiving.
Cortisol and Anxiety
Stress hormones can also play a part in fertility challenges. A 2023 study looking at infertile women found that morning cortisol levels were often elevated, especially in women with severe anxiety. In addition, anxious women with high cortisol may have a lower pregnancy rate and require more IVF cycles. While the influence of stress hormones on fertility is still being investigated, it is possible that better stress management strategies—complemented by biochemical assessments—could make a difference.
Our Clinic’s Approach:
Our clinic can conduct comprehensive hormone and metabolic panels. With this information, we develop individualized lifestyle and nutritional recommendations that aim to optimize hormonal and metabolic balance.
Putting It All Together: Why Testing Matters
Research suggests there can be multiple overlapping factors—nutritional gaps, inflammation, toxins, hormone imbalances, or metabolic dysfunction—that contribute to fertility challenges. Without pinpointing which issue(s) you have, it’s difficult to address them effectively. That’s why thorough testing is often the first step in creating a fertility-supportive plan.
Possible Key Testing Areas Include:
Comprehensive Nutritional Panel
Inflammation Markers
Hormone Profiles
Metabolic Measures
Environmental Toxin Exposure
Conclusion: A Personalized Approach for Fertility
At our clinic, we use personalized ranges to interpret blood work, tailored specifically to each patient and their unique context. Standard blood ranges often lack customization and may not account for individual health needs. By focusing on precise targets, we aim to support specific conditions. Research suggests that certain conditions may improve quicker at certain nutritional blood target levels. Similarly, optimal hormone levels are typically found within a narrow, specific range of the standard reference values, ensuring better balance and well-being.
Identify Key Imbalances: Whether you have low vitamin D, iron deficiency, elevated homocysteine, or insulin resistance, addressing these issues is often central to improving fertility.
Address Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: If relevant, making modifications to reduce exposures (heavy metals, pesticides) or adjusting your diet can be beneficial.
Support Hormones and Metabolism: Techniques ranging from stress management to careful use of supplements might help bring hormones such as cortisol into a more supportive range.
By evaluating your comprehensive test results, our naturopathic doctor develops a tailored plan that supports your unique fertility goals. Depending on the findings, we may recommend a variety of natural therapies, including specific dietary adjustments, nutrient supplementation, herbal approaches, or further referrals for specialized care when necessary.
If you’ve been on a long fertility journey without clear answers, or if you simply want a more in-depth look at potential contributing factors, consider booking a consultation. Through thorough testing and an individualized approach, you may gain valuable insights into how to optimize your fertility and overall well-being.
References
Serum copper, zinc and selenium levels in women with unexplained infertility (2023)
Elevated HbA1c Level has a Linear Association with Infertility in Women (2024)
Iron status in women with infertility and controls: a case-control study (2023)
Iron intake in relation to ovarian reserve among women seeking infertility treatment (2023)
Non-Linear Association of Serum Sex Hormone Binding Globulin with Female Infertility (2024)
Prevalence of Vitamin D Insufficiency among Women Undergoing IVF Treatment (2023)
Vitamin D Status in Women with a History of Infertility and Decreased Fecundability (2023)
Associations of environmental exposures to methylmercury and selenium with female infertility (2019)
Higher C-reactive protein levels during IVF stimulation are associated with ART failure (2007)
The Effect of Insulin Resistance on Ovulation Induction With Clomiphene Citrate (2022)
Cortisol dysregulation in anxiety infertile women and the influence on IVF outcome (2023)
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before starting any new treatment or if you have questions about your medical condition. While we aim to provide accurate, research-based information, individual needs and responses to treatments can vary. Our clinic offers personalized consultations to discuss health concerns and develop tailored care plans. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read on this site.
