When it comes to new beginnings—none are arguably more special than deciding to bring a child in to the world.

For many, it is a joyous and life-changing time, however for others fertility can be a difficult journey. In fact, 1 in 6 Australians will have problems conceiving according the Australian Department of Health.[i]

While IVF is a popular choice for those struggling to get pregnant, there are also other options available to couples that are less costly and invasive.

Read our top tips on natural conception for those wanting to take the plunge into parenthood this year.

Nutrition & Lifestyle
A good place to start when addressing infertility is with the basics of nutrition and leading a healthy lifestyle. This includes knowing where you sit on the Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine a healthy weight range for your height [ii].

Being overweight or underweight can affect a woman’s fertility by causing hormonal imbalances and problems with ovulation, while in men—obesity can lower fertility[iii].

Knowing where you sit on the scale for your body type and height can help shape your dietary needs and fitness to prepare your body for conception.

Exposure to Toxins & Pollution
While this is something that is often overlooked, it is important to consider how environmental toxins play a role in potential infertility.

According to research, metals and chemicals in air, water, food, and health-and-beauty aids are damaging to fertility in many ways[iv].

Studies show that the worst fertility disrupters are organochlorine compounds (chlorinated pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, and dioxins), bisphenol A (BPA), and organophosphate pesticides and herbicides[v]. However, many other chemicals, metals, and air pollutants also damage fertility[vi].

Limiting our exposure to these toxins can include:

• Purchasing BPA-free plastic products including dishes, toys or other household items.
• Buying certified organic or locally grown fruits and vegetables to avoid pesticides and herbicides, or ensuring you are washing vegetables or fruits thoroughly after purchase to remove potentially harmful chemicals.
• Limiting your tuna or large fish intake, as these can contain heavy metals such as mercury.

Supplementation
Another consideration to boost fertility is through supplementation, including nutrient rich ingredients like Ubiquinol, which is the active and bioavailable form of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

Ubiquinol is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in nearly every cell of our body. As a powerful antioxidant, it can fight free radicals in the body caused by toxins and pollution, as well as improve dietary intake by improving energy and nutrient absorption.

In addition to these benefits, Ubiquinol has been shown to improve male fertility by supporting sperm health, protecting sperm cells from damage and maintaining sperm production and motility.

In a recent double-blind placebo-controlled study of 228 men who were assigned 200mg of Ubiquinol daily over 26 weeks—Ubiquinol was significantly effective in men with unexplained infertility for improving sperm density, sperm motility and sperm morphology[vii].

For more information on the key benefits and studies that support using Ubiquinol for fertility, visit https://www.ubiquinol.net.au/health-benefits/fertility/.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your doctor or healthcare professional. 

[i] https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/publications/publishing.nsf/Content/womens-health-policy-toc~womens-health-policy-experiences~womens-health-policy-experiences-reproductive~womens-health-policy-experiences-reproductive-maternal~womens-health-policy-experiences-reproductive-maternal-fert

[ii] https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/know-your-risks/healthy-weight/bmi-calculator

[iii] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/weight-fertility-and-pregnancy-health

[iv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6396757/

[v] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6396757/

[vi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6396757/

[vii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22704112