Can Inositol Increase Fertility?
You’ve read the lists of helpful fertility and prenatal supplements, and you know the basics: prenatal vitamins, CoQ10, folate, but where does inositol fit in?
By OBGYN and fertility expert Dr Kenosha Gleaton
A member of the vitamin B complex, inositol is a naturally occurring substance with antioxidant properties. Some studies have suggested that inositol can be beneficial for improving IVF outcomes and general fertility, especially for those with PCOS.
Ovulation and ovarian function
A randomized, double-blind clinical trial found a beneficial effect of Myo-Inositol in improving ovarian function in women with oligomenorrhea (aka infrequent menstrual periods) and polycystic ovaries (a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts). The double-blind, randomized control study found that women who took myo-inositol ovulated more frequently than the placebo group.
Another study of 91 PCOS patients found that the combination of inositol and folic acid may promote ovulation in women with fertility issues.
Does Myo-inositol (MI) improve egg quality?
There have been established antioxidant and growth-promoting factors of MI. Some studies have shown improved embryo and oocyte quality as well as improved overall ovulary function as a result of MI supplementation. The ovary also uses high levels of MI to help carry out physiological activities, and is thought to increase insulin sensitivity of the ovary to potentially improve egg quality
Myo-Inositol and IVF
One systematic review suggests that MI supplementation is able to reduce the amount of gonadotropins (a fertility medication used during IVF) used in both PCOS and non-PCOS women undergoing IVF. Additionally, the authors found MI was able to reduce the IVF cycle length for women with PCOS (meaning less shots and less money!).
Another meta-analysis and systematic review of seven trials with 935 women found that MI may improve embryo quality, help reduce the amount of unsuitable oocytes, and decrease the amount of needed stimulation drugs. It was also found to increase the clinical pregnancy rate in infertile women undergoing IVF.
How much inositol should I take for fertility?
A study focused on ovarian function in women with PCOS showed favorable results after giving a dosage of 200 g of inositol, two times a day, for 12 months. Another study used a dosage of 4,000 mg/day and observed better fertilization rates and improved embryo quality.
The short answer: there aren’t enough studies on inositol to know exactly how much to take or how effective it is. WeI recommend talking with your OBGYN or REI about if you’re interested in taking inositol or any supplement. for fertility.
How long does inositol take to work for fertility?
There isn’t an agreed upon time frame for inositol supplementation to begin showing effects, but many studies have observed positive effects on fertility after 3 to 4 months. Most supplementation before IVF treatments begins around 2 to 3 months prior to treatment.
The ratio of Myo-Inositol (MI) to D-Chiro Inositol (DCI) in your supplement matters
Each organ has a specific MI/DCI ratio related to its function. In the ovary, MI enhances the action of FSH, via anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and DCI is responsible for an excess production of insulin-dependent testosterone. According to scientists, MI has been found in follicular fluid and appears to improve oocyte and embryo quality.
Clinical evidence has demonstrated that a 40:1 ratio between MI and DCI is the optimal combination for the most effective results.
To sum it up..
Emerging data on inositol for fertility is compelling, especially for women struggling with PCOS. As a member of the vitamin B complex family, inositol is a naturally occurring substance with antioxidant properties. Some clinics and fertility doctors may prescribe or suggest inositol for ovulation or IVF. It is always best to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement regimen.
