supplements before IVF

[Oliveivy3]

Following a recent chemical pregnancy after my 5th transfer I am having a few months break to decide next steps. Our infertility is unexplained and I am now 39. Having read it starts with an egg I am putting an action plan together to give us the best possible chances in our next round or to help us conceive naturally. I am looking at coenzyme q10 but wondered what brand and strength would be best ? Also is it necessary to spend the extra money on a mens preconception supplements compared to a normal multi vitamin? Thanks 😊

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi I can only suggest pre conception vitamins for men and women. Speak to your clinic if they feel you need anything else. Diane

[Football61]

Hi, I’m so sorry to hear about your chemical pregnancy. I took CO-Q10 ahead of my first (unsuccessful) IVF cycle in May. I’m in the middle of my second IVF cycle now, but switched to Ubiquinol ahead of this round. Solgar 200mg, twice a day. It’s pricey, but I thought it was worth a shot as my egg quality is terrible. Can sometimes get a good deal at Holland and Barrett, or on eBay if not. Good luck x

[Queg]

Hi Oliveivy3,

I am sorry for what you are going through. I too, am unexplained infertility, going on 41. If you search/keep a look out for some success stories you can ask what may have worked for them, both with natural and assisted.

I started CoQ, 600mg/day (as the book suggested) after 1 failed cycle due to too few follicles and not responding to meds. Second cycle 2.5 months later, still few follicles, it did nothing for me quantity wise. I used The Intelligent Health CoQ and have now switched brands.

For this, my final attempt for my own eggs, I have added on most of the other supplements in the book you mentioned, following everything suitable for my situation.

I do regret not turning to alternative medicine and seeing a Chinese herbalist, as Western medication, which is hideously expensive, is failing me.

I wish you all the best.

[Eloquentia]

Hi! I also found 'It all starts with the egg very helpful'. My action plan included CoQ in the form of Ubiquinol, Vitamin D spray and Proxeed for me and for my husband respectively. I also took oral and vaginal probiotics in the run up to our last FET, which worked. Our clinic recommended Proxeed. Male fertility supplements have a few extra ingredients compared to normal vitamins, so while they are much more expensive, we felt they were worth the investment due to being targeted at improving sperm quality. Good luck with the next round!