1. Getting adequate sleep
With our busy lifestyles and everyday stresses, this may be easier said than done! But, research shows that sleep has a big impact on fertility. According to Dr. Hartman, infertility is more common in those who don't get adequate sleep (7-8 hours). Though the exact link is not known, potential reasons include increased cortisol levels and changes in melatonin production (both of which can impact sleep cycles). If you struggle with sleep, practicing good sleep hygiene can help. If you consistently struggle with sleep, or it's impacting your quality of life, contact your family physician.
2. Adding nutritional supplements
Dr. Hartman also advises many of his patients to take certain supplements to optimize their fertility health. These include:
- Vitamin D | low Vitamin D has been linked to poor egg quality. Since we (sadly) don't get enough sunlight even in the best of weather in Canada, most patients could benefit from daily Vitamin D supplements.
- Coenzyme-Q10 | Coenzyme-Q10 helps cells make energy to develop in a healthy way. Taking a daily supplement can improve both egg quality and sperm health.
If you have questions about supplements, book an appointment with our caring team. We'll create a personalized wellness plan based on your fertility needs.
3. Practicing a healthy lifestyle
Finally, Dr. Hartman emphasizes the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, which includes maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking. Being overweight can lead to irregular menstrual cycles in a women, and impact sperm quality in men. Smoking is associated with reduced egg quality and quantity and can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
"I often tell my patients that fertility health isn't comprised of one single thing - it's holistic. Supporting your overall health and wellness from many angles is vitally important to optimizing your chances of a healthy, successful conception."
Dr. Michael Hartman, MD, FRCSC, GREI
Our dedicated team of Fertility Specialists is committed to understanding your needs and providing care for the whole you.
