Can taking too many supplements have a negative impact on your pregnancy?

Can taking too many supplements have a negative impact on your pregnancy?

It is only natural for women to want to take vitamins and supplements while undergoing fertility treatment and during the initial stages of their pregnancy to help improve their chances of achieving a healthy ongoing pregnancy. But can too much of a good thing be harmful? Definitely!

Like all medications and supplements, they can have their benefit and we of course encourage our patients to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle when looking at undergoing fertility treatment.

However, studies have shown that exceeding the maximum daily dosage for some medications and supplements can actually have a detrimental effect on your chances of falling pregnant and possibly cause adverse effects on your pregnancy. A Dutch study previously revealed that there was a strong association with excessive doses of antioxidants such as vitamin E in early pregnancy and a higher instance of congenital birth defects in children.

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant which helps protect the body against tissue damage from free radicals, helps maintain a healthy immune system and plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells. It can be found in foods such as vegetable oils, nuts and seeds, and green leafy vegetables and is essential for the body to function normally.

The recommended daily dose of vitamin E in pregnancy is between 16-30 IU, however when the dose is exceeded, it can be harmful. The study has shown that pregnant women who consume excessive levels of vitamin E, are 70% more likely to have a child with birth defects. The Dutch study was able to make a strong association between the increased risk of congenital defects in children and excessive doses of vitamin E during early pregnancy, which raises the question: How much vitamin E should I be consuming?

Fertility First suggests prenatal products and supplements that already contain the correct dosage of vitamin E, in addition to recommending a healthy diet that includes a sufficient source of the vitamins and minerals necessary for normal bodily functions.

Always remember: “The difference between a medicine and a poison is the dose.”

For more information about pregnancy and planning, visit our guide or contact us directly.

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FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.