Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones and protection against chronic diseases. It is also essential for the development of sex hormones and regulating cell growth, which are key factors in being able to conceive.
Research studies performed on women with fertility issues noted most of them had vitamin D deficiency. Studies further indicate that aggressive repletion of vitamin D facilitated ovulation resumption in women with ovulation disorders without increasing the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation.
In its active form, vitamin D increases progesterone and estrogen levels, maintains a healthy uterine lining, and reduces the risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis. In men, vitamin D plays a role in the healthy development of sperm and maintenance of semen quality.
Vitamin D also influences in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Higher levels of vitamin D increases the likelihood of achieving pregnancy through IVF. Recipients of donor eggs have a better chance of achieving clinical pregnancy when they have adequate vitamin D levels.
So, what are good sources of vitamin D?
There are several ways to obtain a sufficient amount of vitamin D:
- Diet: Most of the milk available at your supermarket is fortified with vitamin D. Other foods that are rich in vitamin D include eggs, fatty fish, dairy, and cod liver oil.
- Supplementation: Vitamin D supplements can be purchased over the counter. Ensure that you are taking vitamin D3 (and not D2) which is more potent and can be easily used by your body.
- Sunlight: It is a well-known fact that exposure to sunlight, helps your body synthesize vitamin D. Being out in the sun for about 15 to 20 minutes a day should be enough. Your skin uses the sunlight to produce vitamin D3, which is then converted into its active form by your liver and kidneys.
When it comes to boosting your fertility, optimizing vitamin D levels should be made one of your top priorities.
ReproMed Fertility Center is committed to providing comprehensive infertility and reproductive health care, including In-vitro fertilization (IVF). Our physicians formulate individualized treatment plans for each patient so they have the best chance of conceiving. ReproMed Fertility Center can offer new hope to those seeking to overcome infertility in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.