Vitamin D, widely known as the “sunshine vitamin,” supports women’s reproductive health as well as bone health and compensates for calcium insufficiency. The importance of vitamin D for female fertility is discussed by an expert.
The appropriate habits, lifestyle, and daily intake of the necessary nutrients all contribute to a healthy physique. One of these elements that people need to be cautious of is vitamin D. Women are increasingly experiencing health issues like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, and vitamin D deficiency is one of the contributing factors. While this vitamin from the sun is renowned for playing a critical part in preserving bone health and controlling calcium levels in the body. New research indicates a connection between vitamin D and fertility.
To learn more about the function of vitamin D for conception, Health Shots contacted Dr. Ritu Sethi, the Senior Consultant at Cloud Nine Hospital in Gurugram and the Aura Speciality Clinic in Gurugram.
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How does vitamin D increase fertility?
According to certain research, blood levels of 30 ng/mL vitamin D are associated with greater pregnancy rates. Comparing those with high vitamin D levels to those with low levels, the likelihood of conception increased by four times. Dr. Nair claims that low vitamin D levels can also lower the success rate of reproductive treatments.
Vitamin D directly affects reproductive health.
Vitamin D receptors are frequently identified in the placenta, uterus, and ovaries, among other reproductive tissues. This implies that vitamin D might have an immediate impact on reproductive health. According to the expert, studies have indicated that women who have infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or endometriosis—common illnesses linked to reproductive health problems—are at a higher risk of vitamin D insufficiency.
Vitamin D controls the body’s hormones.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) are just a few of the hormones that vitamin D plays a role in regulating. These hormones are essential for the growth of ovarian follicles, ovulation, and general reproductive health. Adequate vitamin D levels may support fertility by preserving the ideal balance of these hormones.
Enhances ovarian function
“Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to improve ovarian function in women with PCOS, resulting in better menstrual regularity and increased ovulation rates,” the specialist explains.
Vitamin D influences the responsiveness of the endometrium.
“The endometrium is essential for proper implantation and pregnancy. By affecting gene expression, cellular proliferation, and immune system control, vitamin D has been found to alter endometrial receptivity. According to the expert, adequate vitamin D levels may assist establish a more favorable endometrial environment that promotes embryo implantation.
Assists in controlling general reproductive health
For reproductive health, maintaining appropriate vitamin D levels is crucial. However, a lot of people, particularly those who reside in areas with little sun exposure, run the danger of vitamin D insufficiency. The best ways to guarantee optimal vitamin D levels include regular sun exposure, consuming vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and supplementation.
How can our bodies produce more vitamin D?
The best strategy to compensate for low vitamin D levels in the body, according to Dr. Nair, is to expose oneself to direct sunlight. The majority of us receive little sunlight, which causes vitamin D insufficiency. Additionally, foods like fish and mushrooms are regarded as being high in vitamin D. Additionally, the deficiency may be corrected by taking vitamin D supplements at the dosage recommended by your doctor.
In addition, there are certain other elements that influence the body’s vitamin D levels.
A person is more likely to have low vitamin D levels if they are overweight or have dark skin. Additionally, vitamin D increases the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy throughout the entire time. A lack of vitamin D during pregnancy has been associated in studies to an increased risk of preterm birth, gestational diabetes development, hypertension, as well as some types of infections.
Supplementing with vitamin D may also lessen or even stop the reversible bone loss that occurs in mothers during pregnancy. The greatest source is the most natural one: getting direct sun exposure and ingesting the benefits of vitamin D in the early morning when the body is better able to absorb UVB rays.
