Relationship: Infertility and folate

Evidence supporting the use of: Folate
For the health condition: Infertility

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Folate (vitamin B9) has a scientifically validated role in supporting fertility, especially in women. Multiple studies have shown that adequate folate intake is associated with improved reproductive outcomes. Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, all vital processes in oocyte (egg) maturation and early embryonic development. Folate deficiency is linked to neural tube defects in offspring, but it also appears to impact fertility by increasing the risk of ovulatory infertility.

A number of observational studies have demonstrated that women taking folic acid supplements (the synthetic form of folate) have higher pregnancy rates when trying to conceive, both naturally and through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. One notable study published in Fertility and Sterility (2012) found that higher folate intake was associated with higher rates of live birth after IVF. Another large study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2016) observed that women with higher folic acid intake had a lower risk of infertility due to ovulation disorders.

Men may also benefit: research suggests folate may improve sperm quality, although the evidence is less robust than in women. Professional guidelines, including those from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), recommend folic acid supplementation for women of childbearing age, mainly to prevent birth defects, but the fertility benefits provide further support for its use during preconception.

Overall, the use of folate to support fertility is backed by scientific evidence, reflected in its widespread recommendation in reproductive medicine.

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Other health conditions supported by folate

Anemia
Apathy
Autism
Birth Defects (prevention)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Cardiovascular Disease
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Down Syndrome
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Infertility
Memory and Brain Function
Miscarriage (prevention)
Pap Smear (abnormal)
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)

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Evidence supporting the use of: Folate
For the health condition: Infertility

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Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Infertility

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: FolateFor the health condition: Infertility

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Infertility

Other health conditions supported by folate

Products containing folate

Evidence supporting the use of: Folate
For the health condition: Infertility