Egg quality concern - proceed with IVF or wait?

[ApplePie279]

Hi all,

I recently started a new supplement, and it's caused my last two cycles to be irregular, lasting over 40 days instead of my usual clockwork schedule.

I've stopped taking the supplement now, but I'm about to start another round of IVF and am concerned whether this could have impacted egg quality.

Should I proceed or wait a few months to ensure everything's back to normal? I'm nearing 40, so time feels like it's running out.

Any advice would be really appreciated - thank you.

I don't think it will have made any difference to egg quality. That is almost entirely related to age.

What supplement was it? I really recommend the book ‘it starts with the egg’ to look at supplements in relation to egg quality. She goes through all the evidence of the supplements that do and don’t improve egg quality. I can’t remember which one it was but I think there was one supplement she talks about that was positive for uterine lining so good for a frozen transfer but not great for egg quality.. I think it may have been L-arginine but would need to double check with the book.

I would say go ahead with a new cycle, you won't know unless you have your eggs collected and see how they go. Im currently in the same position, eg: egg quality. Our last cycle was disastrous, got 7 eggs collected which was over achieving for me lol and only 2 were mature enough for icsi and unfortunely no fertilisation. I was put on a compound supplement and my husband started a fertility supplement in hopes we have a better outcome in our next cycle. Il be 40 next month and my husband is 41 in October so we also arnt spring chickens.

@ApplePie279
Hi OP,
It’s hard to say really. Though if of use, I saw a nutritionist. Along with dietary requirements (increased protein, antioxidant foods etc), I was advised to take a probiotic to support the virginal microbiome, pregnancy multi vitamin, CoQ10, Omega-3, Vitamin D. I also took magnesium as I’ve been through a lot of stress following the loss of my father. A 3 month period is important to optimise egg health. I am 40 with a low ovarian reserve, so was always concerned as to the chances I had. However, as reminded by my doctors, it only take one good egg and a sperm! My husband was on supplements too, it’s not just about the egg but the sperm for a successful outcome. Oh also to add, I had both reflexology and acupuncture, my personal preference was reflexology. Wishing you all the best. X

Thank you all for your replies!

@lemons44 – It’s called Ovum and appreciate the recommendation. I have read that book but a long while back, so probably need to revisit it.

@Miraclemuma03 – So sorry to hear about your last cycle. My first round ended with no fertilisation either, so I can completely empathise. I’ve had day 3 embryos in later cycles, so things can improve. Fingers crossed for a better outcome for you.

@starmoon167 – I'm really sorry for your loss, and thank you for taking the time to comment. Would you mind sharing the brands and dosages you’re taking? I also have low ovarian reserve and am truly holding onto that one good egg and sperm thought. Wishing you all the best too x

I'm not an expert, but from what I’ve read, doctors often recommend starting supplements at least three months before trying to conceive. Every situation is unique, and it's always a good idea to discuss your individual case with a doctor—you can never ask too many questions when it comes to your health.