More and more couples preparing for pregnancy rely on targeted nutritional supplements. But why do fertility experts emphasize that vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants should be taken at least four months before a planned pregnancy? The answer lies in the biological cycles of eggs and sperm – and in the role that micronutrients play in fertility and early embryonic development.
1. The Egg Maturation Cycle
Eggs need around 90 to 120 days to fully mature before they are ready for fertilization. During this period, they are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress and nutrient deficiencies. Studies have shown that antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10 can improve egg quality by neutralizing free radicals and supporting mitochondrial function (Bentov & Casper, 2013). Continuous supplementation over several months ensures that eggs are optimally nourished throughout the maturation process.
2. Sperm Quality Takes Time
In men, spermatogenesis – the process of creating new sperm – takes about 74 days, with additional weeks required for maturation and transport. Nutrients such as zinc, selenium, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve sperm motility and morphology (Showell et al., 2014). Taking supplements for at least three to four months supports the production of healthy, fertilization-ready sperm.
3. Hormonal Balance and Cycle Regulation
Beyond eggs and sperm, hormones play a critical role in fertility. Vitamin D, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids can help stabilize hormonal balance and support a regular menstrual cycle (Ruder et al., 2009). A stable cycle increases the chances of conception and makes it easier to identify fertile days.
4. Preventing Nutrient Deficiencies
Many women start taking supplements only once they are already pregnant. However, the first weeks of pregnancy – often before a woman even knows she is pregnant – are crucial for embryonic development. Folic acid, for example, is essential to prevent neural tube defects (Czeizel & Dudas, 1992). Taking supplements several months in advance helps prevent deficiencies and provides a strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy.
5. Long-Term Maternal Health
Long-term supplementation benefits not only fertility but also overall maternal health. Vitamins and minerals strengthen the immune system, boost energy production, and help the body adapt to the physical demands of pregnancy and postpartum. Women who are well-supplied with micronutrients before pregnancy show improved pregnancy outcomes and a lower risk of complications such as preeclampsia (Duley, 2009).
CONCLUSION
Science is clear: taking supplements for at least four months before a planned pregnancy is not an unnecessary trend, but a medically grounded strategy to increase the chances of healthy conception and a complication-free pregnancy.
REFERENCES
Bentov, Y., & Casper, R. F. (2013). The aging oocyte—can mitochondrial function be improved? Fertility and Sterility, 99(1), 18–22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.11.031
Czeizel, A. E., & Dudas, I. (1992). Prevention of the first occurrence of neural-tube defects by periconceptional vitamin supplementation. New England Journal of Medicine, 327(26), 1832–1835. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199212243272602
Duley, L. (2009). The global impact of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Seminars in Perinatology, 33(3), 130–137. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.semperi.2009.02.010
Haggarty, P., et al. (2006). Effect of B vitamins and genetics on success of in-vitro fertilization: A review. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 13(2), 242–249. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1472-6483(10)60623-1
Ruder, E. H., Hartman, T. J., Reindollar, R. H., & Goldman, M. B. (2009). Female dietary antioxidant intake and time to pregnancy among couples treated for unexplained infertility. Fertility and Sterility, 91(6), 2166–2172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.03.022
Showell, M. G., Mackenzie-Proctor, R., Brown, J., Yazdani, A., Stankiewicz, M. T., & Hart, R. J. (2014). Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2014(12), CD007411. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD007411.pub3
Vujkovic, M., et al. (2010). The impact of preconception dietary patterns on fecundability. Fertility and Sterility, 94(3), 1202–1207. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.05.061