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Mitochondria and Infertility

Mitochondria are tiny organelles that are found in every cell in your body. They are often called the "powerhouse of the cell" because they produce energy for the cell to function.


Mitochondria are also important for fertility. If mitochondria are not functioning properly, it can lead to infertility problems in both men and women.


Microscope to look at Mitochondria
Microscope

MEN

In men, mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to low sperm counts, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology.


WOMEN

In women, mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to difficulty producing eggs, poor oocyte quality, and an increased risk of miscarriage.


MITOCHONDRIA AND PREGNANCY

Mitochondria are also essential for a healthy pregnancy. The developing embryo and fetus rely on mitochondria to produce energy. Mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects.



WHAT CAN YOU DO?

There are a few things you can do to support your mitochondrial health and improve your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby:

  • Eat a healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are packed with antioxidants, which can help to protect your mitochondria from damage.

Meditation to reduce stress
Meditation

  • Get regular exercise: Exercise helps to improve mitochondrial function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

  • Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential for cellular repair and regeneration. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage mitochondria.

  • Consider Methods to Improve Mitochondrial Function: Mitochondrial Function can improve by ensuring NAD+ levels are sufficient and maintained with supplementation. Also, using interventions like Low Level Light Therapy can help improve energy production within the mitochondria.

  • Consider mitochondrial replacement therapy: If you have mitochondrial dysfunction and are struggling to get pregnant, you may want to consider mitochondrial replacement therapy. Mitochondrial replacement therapy is a new and controversial procedure, but it has the potential to help women with mitochondrial dysfunction get pregnant and have healthy babies.

If you are struggling with infertility, it is important to talk to your doctor about your mitochondrial health. Your doctor can help you to develop a plan to improve your mitochondrial function and increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Additional Tips for Adults Struggling with Infertility

  • Don't give up. Infertility can be a difficult and frustrating experience, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many couples struggle with infertility, and there are many resources available to help you.

  • Talk to your partner. It is important to communicate with your partner about your feelings and your hopes for the future. Talking to your partner can help you to feel supported and to make decisions together.

  • Seek professional help. If you are struggling to cope with infertility, or if you are having difficulty getting pregnant, talk to your doctor or a fertility specialist. They can help you to understand your options and to develop a plan to get pregnant.

Remember, you are not alone. There are many people who care about you and want to help you through this difficult time. There are many Emotions During Infertility Treatment Nobody Talks About.


Not sure where to start? Stenzel Chiropractic Clinic has protocols that may help better the odds of fertilization. (Learn more: Infertility: What Factors are Being Overlooked?)






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