Your Questions, Answered: L-Methyl Folate Fertility FAQ
-
Yes, it’s been shown that some variations of the MTHFR gene correlate with an increased risk of developing PCOS, one of the most common causes of female infertility. This is likely due to elevated homocysteine levels. Generally, women with PCOS have higher homocysteine levels than those who do not have PCOS. However, L-Methyl folate supplementation may be an effective source of folate for women with PCOS.
-
Yes – healthcare experts highly recommend pregnant women take daily folate supplements, particularly L-Methyl Folate, the most bioavailable form. Among its potential benefits is the synthesis of DNA and RNA, enabling cell regeneration and division in mothers’ bodies for babies’ development.
This nutrient is considered essential by leading healthcare agencies for women throughout their childbearing years. It’s been found to reduce the risks of having children with neural tube defects, those affecting the developing brain or spinal cord, including anencephaly and spina bifida. Ideally, it’s recommended that women take a prenatal supplement with L-Methyl Folate for at least one month before trying to conceive to build up the nutrient levels before pregnancy. This nutrient has also been shown to support breastfeeding, and it’s present in breast milk in sufficient amounts, providing necessary amounts for infants.
-
Yes, L-Methyl Folate supplementation has been shown to increase the likelihood of success for those undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Folate is vital to both DNA formation and detoxification, both of which are important for early embryo formation.
-
L-Methyl folate may potentially improve outcomes for people with a history of recurrent miscarriages or embryo implantation failure, both of which are commonly caused by chromosomal abnormalities. Studies have shown that there may be a correlation between these abnormalities and certain MTHFR mutations, specifically mutations that are associated with higher levels of homocysteine. Elevated homocysteine levels, combined with low folate levels, can contribute to chromosomal abnormalities, the leading cause of early miscarriage and failed IVF cycles. As such, L-Methyl folate may help improve pregnancy outcomes in these scenarios.
-
Yes, studies show that taking L-Methyl Folate supplements may support spermatogenesis, the development of sperm. By countering the effects of the MTHFR gene, it may reduce genetic issues associated with male infertility, including higher risks for both azoospermia (no sperm in the ejaculate) and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (low sperm count). Additionally, L-Methyl Folate supplementation may lower homocysteine levels, which may affect sperm development and DNA function.
-
Yes, regularly taking L-Methyl Folate supplements, with or without other antioxidants, has been found to support a variety of criteria for sperm quality. Among these are sperm count, motility, and morphology. For example, a combination of folic acid and zinc was shown to boost total sperm count in fertile and subfertile men by 74%.
- Under age 35, and have not conceived after a year of unprotected sex.
- Are 35 years or older, and have not conceived after six months of unprotected sex.
If you’re ready to connect with a specialist, request a consultation with our trusted network today.
-
L-Methyl Folate has been found to benefit erectile dysfunction, likely due to its benefits for reducing homocysteine levels. This nutrient may promote healthy erections by improving how blood flows through arteries and veins. As L-Methyl Folate supports cardiovascular health, these benefits may also be applicable to erectile dysfunction.