How to improve fertility : Natural methods and Peptide therapy

Fertility

Leah Bush

5 mins read

• Jun 20, 2024

Fertility issues affect many couples, creating emotional and physical challenges along the way. While there are numerous factors that can impact fertility, there are also many natural ways to enhance it.
Additionally, emerging treatments like peptides offer new hope for those struggling to conceive. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors influencing fertility, natural methods to boost fertility, and the potential role of peptides in improving reproductive health. Let's take a comprehensive look at strategies to help you on your journey to parenthood.

A young couple with their child

Understanding Fertility Issues: Causes and Challenges

Causes of Fertility Issues:

Women: Common causes include ovulation disorders such as :¹

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - a condition where you have few, unusual or very long periods

  • Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) - A medical condition that occurs when a woman's ovaries stop working normally before age 40

  • Endometriosis - a chronic gynecological disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus.

  • Age-related decline

  • Uterine fibroids - non-cancerous tumors that grow in the uterus and are made up of muscle and connective tissue

  • Blocked fallopian tubes and endocrine issues.

Men: Factors include :²

  • Low sperm count

  • Poor sperm motility - the ability of sperm to move efficiently and in a straight line through the female reproductive tract to fertilize an egg.

  • Hormonal imbalances (such as more than normal production of prolactin, or lowered sensitivity to androgens) can interfere with the functioning of the testicles, affecting the production of testosterone and sperm production.

  • Genetic/birth defects (such as a male having XXY chromosomes instead of XY),

  • Age-related decline

  • Direct trauma to the testicles and other testicular issues.

Lifestyle Factors: These factors affect both men and women -³

  • Obesity

  • Smoking

  • Excessive alcohol consumption

  • Exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Birth defects

  • Cancer

  • Diabetes

  • Infections.

Challenges:

Emotional Impact: Fertility issues can lead to emotional impacts such as :

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Grief

  • Low self-esteem

  • Social stigma

  • Anger, sadness and guilt

  • Loneliness

Medical Interventions: While effective, treatments like in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and medications can be costly and emotionally taxing.

Nutrition: Fueling Fertility with a Balanced Diet

Diet plays a crucial role in supporting reproductive health:⁴

  • Whole Foods: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients for reproductive health.

  • Antioxidants: Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens, can help protect sperm and egg health from oxidative stress.

  • Folic Acid: Women should ensure adequate intake of folic acid through leafy greens, citrus fruits, and fortified grains to support healthy ovulation and pregnancy. The RDA for Folic acid is 400-600 mcg(micrograms) per day.

  • Zinc and Selenium: These minerals, found in nuts, seeds, and seafood, are important for sperm production and motility in men. The RDA for Zinc is 8-13 mg per day. The RDA for Selenium is 55mcg, the upper limit for Selenium is 400mcg per day.

  • Calcium : Helps regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain healthy estrogen levels. The RDA for Calcium is 1000mg to 1200mg per day.

  • Iron : Research has linked iron deficiency to ovulatory infertility, miscarriage, low birth weight, and preterm labor. The RDA for Iron is 10-20 mg per day.

  • Magnesium : It helps balance fertility hormones progesterone and estrogen. The RDA for Magnesium in adult men is 400-420mg per day, for women it is 310-320 mg per day.

  • Iodine : It helps in promoting healthy menstruation and increasing the chances of conception. The RDA for Iodine is 90-150 mcg per day, for lactating women is is 250mcg per day.

Exercise: Keeping Active for Reproductive Health

Regular physical activity can enhance fertility:⁵

  • Moderate Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga to maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress, both of which are important for fertility.

  • Avoid Overtraining: While exercise is beneficial, excessive or intense workouts can disrupt menstrual cycles and reduce sperm quality. Aim for balance.

  • Pelvic Health: Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor, such as Kegels, can improve reproductive health and support pregnancy. Here's a video for your reference :


Stress Management: Finding Calm in the Conception Journey

Managing stress is essential for improving fertility:⁶

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being, which can positively impact fertility. You can try NSDR (Non sleep deep rest) for relaxation and resetting your central nervous system by using this video as your guide : Video.

  • Relaxation Techniques: Activities such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, and tai chi can help calm the mind and body.

  • Support Systems: Seek support from friends, family, or support groups such as resolve. Sharing your journey with others can provide emotional relief and practical advice.

The Role of Peptides: Innovative Approaches to Fertility

Peptides are being explored for their potential benefits in treating fertility issues:

  • Enclomiphene Citrate ⁷ and Progesterone ⁸: These peptides play a key role in regulating the reproductive hormone system. They can help stimulate the release of hormones necessary for ovulation and sperm production.

  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: These peptides can help regulate ovulation and improve fertility outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive treatments.

  • Benefits of Peptides: Peptides like Enclomiphene Citrate, Progesterone and GnRH agonists can be used as part of a comprehensive fertility treatment plan. They are usually administered under medical supervision and can offer additional support alongside natural methods and traditional therapies.

Combining Natural Methods and Modern Treatments

A holistic approach that combines natural methods with modern treatments can be most effective:

  • Personalized Plan: Work with healthcare providers to develop a personalized fertility plan that includes dietary changes, exercise, stress management, and potentially peptide treatments.

  • Monitor Progress: Regularly monitor your reproductive health and overall well-being. Adjust your plan as needed to stay on track.

  • Stay Informed: Stay informed about new research and advancements in fertility treatments, including the role of peptides and other medical interventions.

Conclusion: Fertility issues can be challenging, but with the right strategies, they can be managed effectively. By adopting healthy eating habits, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and ensuring quality sleep, you can enhance your fertility naturally. Additionally, exploring the potential benefits of peptides under medical guidance can provide further support. Taking a proactive approach to your reproductive health can help you on your journey to parenthood. Here’s to your journey towards better fertility and well-being!

Sources :

  1. Walker, M. H., & Tobler, K. J. (2022, December 19). Female infertility. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556033/

  2. Babakhanzadeh, E., Nazari, M., Ghasemifar, S., & Khodadadian, A. (2020). Some of the Factors Involved in Male Infertility: A Prospective Review, International Journal of General Medicine, Volume 13, 29–41. https://doi.org/10.2147/ijgm.s241099

  3. Emokpae, M. A., & Brown, S. I. (2020). Effects of lifestyle factors on fertility: practical recommendations for modification. Reproduction and Fertility, 2(1), R13–R26. https://doi.org/10.1530/raf-20-0046

  4. Skoracka K, Ratajczak AE, Rychter AM, Dobrowolska A, Krela-Kaźmierczak I. Female Fertility and the Nutritional Approach: The Most Essential Aspects. Adv Nutr. 2021 Dec 1;12(6):2372-2386. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmab068. PMID: 34139003; PMCID: PMC8634384. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8634384/

  5. Minhal Mussawar, Ashley A. Balsom, Julia O. Totosy de Zepetnek, Jennifer L. Gordon, The effect of physical activity on fertility: a mini-review, F&S Reports, Volume 4, Issue 2, 2023, Pages 150-158, ISSN 2666-3341, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xfre.2023.04.005

  6. Palomba, S., Daolio, J., Romeo, S., Battaglia, F. A., Marci, R., & La Sala, G. B. (2018). Lifestyle and fertility: the influence of stress and quality of life on female fertility. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12958-018-0434-y

  7. Wiehle, R., Cunningham, G. R., Pitteloud, N., Wike, J., Hsu, K., Fontenot, G. K., Rosner, M., Dwyer, A., & Podolski, J. (2013). Testosterone restoration using enclomiphene citrate in men with secondary hypogonadism: a pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic study. BJU International, 112(8), 1188–1200. https://doi.org/10.1111/bju.12363

  8. Cable JK, Grider MH. Physiology, Progesterone. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558960/


Current version

Jun 20, 2024

Written by

Leah Bush (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Fact checked by

Dr. Joel Lopez (MD, CNS, DABAARM)

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How to improve fertility : Natural methods and Peptide therapy

Fertility

Leah Bush

5 mins read

• Jun 20, 2024

Fertility issues affect many couples, creating emotional and physical challenges along the way. While there are numerous factors that can impact fertility, there are also many natural ways to enhance it.
Additionally, emerging treatments like peptides offer new hope for those struggling to conceive. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors influencing fertility, natural methods to boost fertility, and the potential role of peptides in improving reproductive health. Let's take a comprehensive look at strategies to help you on your journey to parenthood.

Understanding Fertility Issues: Causes and Challenges

Causes of Fertility Issues:

Women: Common causes include ovulation disorders such as :¹

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - a condition where you have few, unusual or very long periods

  • Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) - A medical condition that occurs when a woman's ovaries stop working normally before age 40

  • Endometriosis - a chronic gynecological disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus.

  • Age-related decline

  • Uterine fibroids - non-cancerous tumors that grow in the uterus and are made up of muscle and connective tissue

  • Blocked fallopian tubes and endocrine issues.

Men: Factors include :²

  • Low sperm count

  • Poor sperm motility - the ability of sperm to move efficiently and in a straight line through the female reproductive tract to fertilize an egg.

  • Hormonal imbalances (such as more than normal production of prolactin, or lowered sensitivity to androgens) can interfere with the functioning of the testicles, affecting the production of testosterone and sperm production.

  • Genetic/birth defects (such as a male having XXY chromosomes instead of XY),

  • Age-related decline

  • Direct trauma to the testicles and other testicular issues.

Lifestyle Factors: These factors affect both men and women -³

  • Obesity

  • Smoking

  • Excessive alcohol consumption

  • Exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Birth defects

  • Cancer

  • Diabetes

  • Infections.

Challenges:

Emotional Impact: Fertility issues can lead to emotional impacts such as :

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Grief

  • Low self-esteem

  • Social stigma

  • Anger, sadness and guilt

  • Loneliness

Medical Interventions: While effective, treatments like in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and medications can be costly and emotionally taxing.

Nutrition: Fueling Fertility with a Balanced Diet

Diet plays a crucial role in supporting reproductive health:⁴

  • Whole Foods: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients for reproductive health.

  • Antioxidants: Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens, can help protect sperm and egg health from oxidative stress.

  • Folic Acid: Women should ensure adequate intake of folic acid through leafy greens, citrus fruits, and fortified grains to support healthy ovulation and pregnancy. The RDA for Folic acid is 400-600 mcg(micrograms) per day.

  • Zinc and Selenium: These minerals, found in nuts, seeds, and seafood, are important for sperm production and motility in men. The RDA for Zinc is 8-13 mg per day. The RDA for Selenium is 55mcg, the upper limit for Selenium is 400mcg per day.

  • Calcium : Helps regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain healthy estrogen levels. The RDA for Calcium is 1000mg to 1200mg per day.

  • Iron : Research has linked iron deficiency to ovulatory infertility, miscarriage, low birth weight, and preterm labor. The RDA for Iron is 10-20 mg per day.

  • Magnesium : It helps balance fertility hormones progesterone and estrogen. The RDA for Magnesium in adult men is 400-420mg per day, for women it is 310-320 mg per day.

  • Iodine : It helps in promoting healthy menstruation and increasing the chances of conception. The RDA for Iodine is 90-150 mcg per day, for lactating women is is 250mcg per day.

Exercise: Keeping Active for Reproductive Health

Regular physical activity can enhance fertility:⁵

  • Moderate Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga to maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress, both of which are important for fertility.

  • Avoid Overtraining: While exercise is beneficial, excessive or intense workouts can disrupt menstrual cycles and reduce sperm quality. Aim for balance.

  • Pelvic Health: Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor, such as Kegels, can improve reproductive health and support pregnancy. Here's a video for your reference :


Stress Management: Finding Calm in the Conception Journey

Managing stress is essential for improving fertility:⁶

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being, which can positively impact fertility. You can try NSDR (Non sleep deep rest) for relaxation and resetting your central nervous system by using this video as your guide : Video.

  • Relaxation Techniques: Activities such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, and tai chi can help calm the mind and body.

  • Support Systems: Seek support from friends, family, or support groups such as resolve. Sharing your journey with others can provide emotional relief and practical advice.

The Role of Peptides: Innovative Approaches to Fertility

Peptides are being explored for their potential benefits in treating fertility issues:

  • Enclomiphene Citrate ⁷ and Progesterone ⁸: These peptides play a key role in regulating the reproductive hormone system. They can help stimulate the release of hormones necessary for ovulation and sperm production.

  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: These peptides can help regulate ovulation and improve fertility outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive treatments.

  • Benefits of Peptides: Peptides like Enclomiphene Citrate, Progesterone and GnRH agonists can be used as part of a comprehensive fertility treatment plan. They are usually administered under medical supervision and can offer additional support alongside natural methods and traditional therapies.

Combining Natural Methods and Modern Treatments

A holistic approach that combines natural methods with modern treatments can be most effective:

  • Personalized Plan: Work with healthcare providers to develop a personalized fertility plan that includes dietary changes, exercise, stress management, and potentially peptide treatments.

  • Monitor Progress: Regularly monitor your reproductive health and overall well-being. Adjust your plan as needed to stay on track.

  • Stay Informed: Stay informed about new research and advancements in fertility treatments, including the role of peptides and other medical interventions.

Conclusion: Fertility issues can be challenging, but with the right strategies, they can be managed effectively. By adopting healthy eating habits, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and ensuring quality sleep, you can enhance your fertility naturally. Additionally, exploring the potential benefits of peptides under medical guidance can provide further support. Taking a proactive approach to your reproductive health can help you on your journey to parenthood. Here’s to your journey towards better fertility and well-being!

A young couple with their child
A young couple with their child

Current version

Jun 20, 2024

Written by

Leah Bush (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Fact checked by

Dr. Joel Lopez (MD, CNS, DABAARM)

Sources :

  1. Walker, M. H., & Tobler, K. J. (2022, December 19). Female infertility. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556033/

  2. Babakhanzadeh, E., Nazari, M., Ghasemifar, S., & Khodadadian, A. (2020). Some of the Factors Involved in Male Infertility: A Prospective Review, International Journal of General Medicine, Volume 13, 29–41. https://doi.org/10.2147/ijgm.s241099

  3. Emokpae, M. A., & Brown, S. I. (2020). Effects of lifestyle factors on fertility: practical recommendations for modification. Reproduction and Fertility, 2(1), R13–R26. https://doi.org/10.1530/raf-20-0046

  4. Skoracka K, Ratajczak AE, Rychter AM, Dobrowolska A, Krela-Kaźmierczak I. Female Fertility and the Nutritional Approach: The Most Essential Aspects. Adv Nutr. 2021 Dec 1;12(6):2372-2386. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmab068. PMID: 34139003; PMCID: PMC8634384. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8634384/

  5. Minhal Mussawar, Ashley A. Balsom, Julia O. Totosy de Zepetnek, Jennifer L. Gordon, The effect of physical activity on fertility: a mini-review, F&S Reports, Volume 4, Issue 2, 2023, Pages 150-158, ISSN 2666-3341, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xfre.2023.04.005

  6. Palomba, S., Daolio, J., Romeo, S., Battaglia, F. A., Marci, R., & La Sala, G. B. (2018). Lifestyle and fertility: the influence of stress and quality of life on female fertility. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12958-018-0434-y

  7. Wiehle, R., Cunningham, G. R., Pitteloud, N., Wike, J., Hsu, K., Fontenot, G. K., Rosner, M., Dwyer, A., & Podolski, J. (2013). Testosterone restoration using enclomiphene citrate in men with secondary hypogonadism: a pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic study. BJU International, 112(8), 1188–1200. https://doi.org/10.1111/bju.12363

  8. Cable JK, Grider MH. Physiology, Progesterone. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558960/