Why you should consider your vitamin D levels when trying to conceive

Why you should consider your vitamin D levels when trying to conceive

It is widely known and acknowledged how crucial having a sufficient level of vitamin D is, not only during pregnancy, but also when trying to conceive. There have been numerous studies that have shown how much of a detrimental effect low vitamin D levels have when trying to fall pregnant. In fact, a recent study this year revealed that simply consuming Vitamin D for approximately 6 weeks prior to ICSI will improve the quality of the endometrium, and subsequently the rates of clinical pregnancy.

Research out of the University of Birmingham in 2017 found that women who had sufficient levels of vitamin D were almost 34% more likely to achieve a positive pregnancy and a further 46% more were likely to have a clinical pregnancy than women who had low levels of serum vitamin D.

Another study published back in 2012 revealed that women who had sufficient vitamin D levels were nearly twice as likely to conceive in comparison to women who had decreased levels of vitamin D. This may be due to the effect vitamin D has on egg quality. Research has revealed that vitamin D has become an emerging factor that impacts female fertility and will influence IVF outcomes by affecting egg quality, maturity, assist in regulating ovulation in patients with ovulation disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in men it can help improve the quality of sperm.

Fertility First has recognised for over 10 years, the importance of sufficient vitamin D levels in both our male and female patients trying to conceive. As a result, our clinic will routinely test the vitamin D levels in all our patients as part of our preliminary assessment.

Foods that are rich sources of vitamin D include oily fish such as tuna and salmon, cheese, egg yolks, mushrooms and orange juice.

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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.