Supplements to support IVF

[Sw33t]

Hello,

I've been reading posts for a while on here and I've finally plucked up the courage to begin my own.

We have been TTC for over 18 months now and I've been seeing a gynecologist for the last 6 months. We've recently found out that I have extremely high FSH and extremely low AMH which is heartbreaking as I'm only 31. We've been offered IVF on the NHS but she's made it clear that it might not work. I did have a scan and I had 3 antral follicles in one ovary but nothing in the other.

I'm hoping to start IVF in the next month or so due to my circumstances. Is there anything that I can do to improve my chances? Such as taking supplements? I'm currently taking Zita West Vitafem and Omega 3 fish oil. I'm also starting acupuncture next week.

Thanks very much in advance

Hi, @Sw33t, first of all, I'm so sorry that you're going through this. Do you mind if I ask what your FSH was? I'm 33 and recently found out mine was 14.6, although I'm still waiting for my AMH levels

Have you read 'It starts with the egg'? That's probably your best source of info for IVF supplement info for high FSH/low AMH-ers. Basically, your first priority should be to increase egg quality (since your FSH/AMH means that your quantity will be low, so work with quality as much as you can). This can be done with Ubiqunol (dose suggestions vary, book says 400mg per day). Also Vitamin D and some antioxidants (eg vitamin c). There are a bunch of others in the book for the stages of IVF, but those are the basics. Also look into DHEA, bit of get your doctor's advice before starting that one.

I'd also maybe post this question on the infertility boards, there's lots of knowledge people there who will be happy to help.

I've also read lots of success stories of people with high FSH and low AMH, and you are young so there's lots of hope! Wishing you so much good luck!!

Thanks so much @NewSew00. Yes, I'll try posting on the infertility board - thanks for the suggestion. My FSH was 116 which is extremely high and I've never heard of anyone having such a high FSH. The weird thing is that it was normal in March so I really don't know why it has suddenly increased by so much.

Yes, I've heard good things about 'It starts with an egg' so I'll order it today, and also order some Ubiquinol and antioxidants.

Wishing you so much luck too! It's such a difficult time but it's so important to stay positive xxx

My clinic just recommends taking the prenatal vitamins, esp folic acid. They also recommend reducing caffeine and alcohol. I also take a vegan omega 3, and get my other fats from my diet, which is full of fruits and veg, and because we are trying to conceive I have a couple of eggs every now and then. I asked them about CoQ10 and other supplements but they said there is no evidence to say they work, and because I'm taking the fertility drugs they've asked me to stay away from herbal remedies. The nurse said her big thing is no smoking. As long as you're looking after yourself...I always took those omegas and the odd supplement, and eat healthily, so I think look after yourself the way you would anyway. I'm 36 and although I'm doing my best I'm not going to go down every rabbit hole, especially if there's a risk something would interfere with the drugs. It's emotionally draining enough as it is. Acupuncture is lovely and and will relax you. Best of luck and look after you, inside and out xxx

Thanks @Maggie272. I know, you could go on forever so I think I'll limit myself to just a few and see how I get on. I don't smoke and I've reduced my alcohol intake. I've even reduced the mileage that I run every week in case that's having an affect! Best of luck to you too xxx