Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Infertility is a widespread issue that has far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Approximately, around one out of every six individuals in their reproductive years face infertility at some point in their lives. This significant prevalence highlights the substantial impact infertility has on a considerable portion of the global population, underscoring the need for awareness, support, and effective interventions to address this challenge. In this article, we will discuss infertility and the deficiency of the vitamins that can cause reduced fertility.
What is infertility?
According to the World Health Organization, infertility is a medical condition that affects people’s reproductive systems. It is characterised by the inability to conceive a pregnancy even after engaging in regular unprotected sexual intercourse for 12 months or more. In other words, infertility refers to the failure to achieve pregnancy within a specified timeframe despite actively trying to conceive.
Which vitamin deficiency is associated with reduced fertility?
Below is a list of vitamins whose deficiency can cause reduced fertility:
Vitamin B6
A study from 2007 found a correlation between higher blood levels of vitamin B6 and fertility in women. However, you must know that research has not yet proven increasing B6 levels alone as a treatment for female infertility. One possible explanation for this connection is the impact of B6 on homocysteine levels, an amino acid found in the bloodstream. High levels of homocysteine in the follicles may cause ovulation problems. On the other hand, low homocysteine levels might improve the chances of a successful pregnancy. A small study in 2017 demonstrated that women with a history of pregnancy loss who took supplemental folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 had reduced homocysteine levels. However, the study did not measure the specific blood levels of B6.
Vitamin B9 Folate
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a crucial B vitamin for fertility and healthy fetal development. Insufficient folate intake may have an association with a higher risk of neural tube defects in newborns, such as spina bifida. Research suggests that proper folate intake can affect progesterone levels and irregular ovulation, potentially impacting fertility. In men, low folate levels may result in poor sperm health, including a higher percentage of DNA-damaged sperm. Folate supplementation, along with zinc, may improve semen analysis results in some instances.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient present in fruits and vegetables. They can maintain healthy connective tissue, heal wounds, and promote immune function. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, reducing cellular damage caused by free radicals. When combined with vitamin E, vitamin C has shown benefits in improving sperm health and reducing sperm DNA fragmentation. A study on women undergoing IVF didn’t show improvements in oxidative stress due to vitamin C supplementation. However, it did increase vitamin C levels in follicular fluid, potentially improving egg quality.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral essential for bone health, but it also plays important roles in heart health, muscle function, nerve transmission, and hormonal balance. Research suggests that higher consumption of dairy products, rich in calcium and fortified with vitamin D, can increase the levels of vitamin D and result in a lower risk of endometriosis and ovulatory problems in women. While there is no specific research on calcium supplementation and female fertility, there is evidence linking calcium deficiency to male fertility issues, such as impaired sperm motility.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, primarily obtained through sun exposure, is essential for maintaining strong bones and has additional roles in cell growth, immune function, and inflammation regulation. Infertility may be a result of low levels of vitamin D also, as both male and female reproductive organs have vitamin D receptors and enzymes involved in metabolism, indicating its importance for fertility. Low vitamin D levels can cause ovulation problems and an increased risk of endometriosis. Whereas higher vitamin D levels may lead to higher success rates in IVF. However, no evidence currently supports vitamin D supplementation for improving fertility.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant, similar to vitamin C, and sufficient intake of antioxidants may potentially aid in fertility by reducing oxidative stress. While animal studies have suggested the benefits of vitamin E supplementation for female fertility, human studies are limited. However, one study in humans demonstrated positive results when vitamin E was combined with selenium. In a small study of individuals undergoing IVF, vitamin E supplements did not show improvements in sperm parameters compared to a placebo. However, they appeared to enhance the overall success rate of IVF.
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