Improving egg quality for IVF

Egg quality plays a big role in the success of in vitro fertilisation (IVF). While age is a factor, lifestyle and overall health also come into play. The good news? There are ways to give egg health a bit of a boost. 

Diet and nutrition 

What’s on the plate matters. A diet packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help support egg health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, may be especially beneficial. Research suggests omega-3s could help slow ovarian ageing and improve egg quality. Following a Mediterranean-style diet—plenty of fruit, veg, whole grains, and healthy fats—has also been linked to better fertility outcomes (read more here). 

A recent study from the University of Birmingham, conducted in conjunction with Tommy’s charity and Care Fertility, found that a diet high in fruit and vegetables is linked to a lower risk of miscarriage, further highlighting the importance of nutrient-rich foods in supporting fertility (read study). 

Dr Yealin Chung, an expert at Care Fertility, emphasises the importance of nutrition in reproductive health:

“There’s a growing body of evidence to show that lifestyle changes - including changes to diet, stopping smoking and not drinking alcohol - before conceiving and in your pregnancy’s early stages - may have an impact.” 

Supplements 

Some supplements may give egg health a helping hand. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is thought to boost mitochondrial function in eggs, which could improve their quality (study here). Another supplement, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), may be useful for women with a low ovarian reserve (research link). As always, it’s best to check with a fertility specialist before taking any new supplements. 

Stress management 

Long-term stress isn’t great for overall health, and it turns out it may have an impact on fertility too. Some research suggests high stress levels can interfere with ovarian function. Making time for relaxation—whether through mindfulness, yoga, or simply taking a break—could help with overall reproductive health. 

Exercise 

Regular movement can help with blood circulation and general wellbeing, both of which are important for fertility. But overdoing it may have the opposite effect, disrupting hormone levels and making conception trickier (learn more). The sweet spot? Moderate, consistent activity. 

Acupuncture 

Some studies suggest acupuncture might improve blood flow to the ovaries and help balance reproductive hormones, potentially supporting egg health. While more research is needed, many people find it a helpful addition to their fertility treatment (read more here).

Lifestyle modifications 

Cutting out smoking and reducing alcohol intake can make a real difference. Smoking exposes eggs to harmful toxins, while alcohol has been linked to hormonal imbalances and lower fertility rates (research here). Small changes can have a big impact on creating a better environment for conception. 

Egg donation 

For those struggling with egg quality, egg donation can be a great option. Using eggs from a donor can increase the chances of pregnancy, especially for women over 40 or those with low ovarian reserve (read more). The process is carefully regulated to ensure high standards of donor screening and matching. 

Advanced fertility technology: Caremaps-AI 

At Care Fertility, cutting-edge technology helps improve embryo selection. Caremaps-AI, an advanced embryo monitoring tool, helps identify embryos with the highest potential for success. As Dr Alison Campbell, our Scientific Director, explains:

“Caremaps-AI allows us to analyse embryo development in incredible detail, giving patients the best chance of a successful outcome.” 

Testing fertility: The pre-treatment bundle 

Getting a clear picture of fertility health is an important first step. Care Fertility’s pre-treatment bundle includes essential tests like ovarian reserve assessment (AMH test), ultrasound scans, and key blood work. These tests provide valuable insights into egg quality and overall fertility potential. The blood work includes checks for hormone levels such as FSH, LH, oestradiol, and prolactin, which help assess ovarian function and identify any underlying hormonal imbalances that could impact fertility.  

Screening for thyroid function and vitamin D levels is also included, as both play a role in reproductive health. By gathering this information early on, a personalised treatment plan can be created, helping to avoid unnecessary delays and ensuring the best approach to treatment from the start. 

Looking ahead 

Improving egg quality isn’t about overnight fixes, but small, consistent changes can make a real difference. Whether it’s eating well, managing stress, or exploring advanced fertility treatments, every step taken is a step towards making pregnancy more likely. 

Care Fertility is here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. A consultation with a fertility specialist can provide clarity and help create a plan that feels right. 

Fertility treatment is a journey, but no one has to go through it alone. With the right care, science, and support, the dream of starting or growing a family is within reach.