In today’s world, there are many pregnancy-harming substances known as free radicals, or reactive oxygen species, as well as other toxins. It is normal for your body to create some free radicals, and they are necessary during ovulation, but excess free radicals can lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can negatively impact both female and male infertility. Antioxidant supplements can help prevent oxidative stress and increase fertility.
Contributing Factors
Some things that can cause your free radical levels to increase can include:
- Aging
- Poor nutrition
- Obesity
- Not enough exercise
- Excess caffeine
- Increased temperature in a man’s scrotum
- Imbalanced insulin levels due to diabetes, sugar intake, or polycystic ovary syndrome
- Toxins such as bisphenol-A (BPA), parabens, phthalates, herbicides, and pesticides
- Using a cell phone or other technology, or placing it near reproductive organs
Oxidative stress can lead to fertility issues and factors that lead to miscarriage. Spontaneous abortion, recurrent pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, and fetal death have all been linked to oxidative stress.
Antioxidants & Boosting Fertility
Antioxidants can help cancel the effects of excess free radicals, resulting in improved egg quality and more regular cycles. It is best to search for supplements with well-researched ingredients when choosing natural antioxidant remedies for fertility. Make sure that your supplements do not interfere with drugs used to stimulate and regulate hormones. For men hoping to increase their fertility, antioxidant supplements can help keep sperm healthy and increase sperm motility.
Reduce Free Radical Damage
In order to reduce free radical damage to your fertility, control your stress levels and get plenty of sleep each night. Use paraben-free and phthalate-free shampoos, conditioners, soaps, and other personal care products. Keep your wifi router at least 10 feet away from your desk and at least 30 feet away from your bed.
NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine/Talbert Fertility Institute is the premiere center for reproductive health in North Carolina and the East Coast. Our team specializes in fertility testing, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility conditions. We’re experts in IVF, Tubal Ligation Reversal, Male Infertility, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Gestation Surrogacy, Family Balancing, and more. Contact us today.
