A combination of a scientific phenomenon, nutrients and dietary supplements might improve the fertility rates of both men and women.
Recent studies have suggested chronobiology, the science of studying how cycles of time impact many facets of human health, can play a crucial role in determining if and how effective both men and women will be when deciding to try and conceive a child.
How Does Chronobiology Relate to Fertility?
The crux of the argument put forth by proponents of chronobiology-based fertility is that people are more likely to conceive when they attempt to do so during specific periods of time, as well as under the right circumstances. In addition, it is also believed individual fertility can be maximized during such cycles if they ingest vitamin and chemical supplements said to improve fertility.
Women and Chronobiology-Based Fertility
It is well-known women of childbearing ages experience a monthly cycle at which they are most fertile. That said, it is now believed natural bodily cycles such as the circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) and seasonal rhythms can have a profound impact on a woman’s ability to become pregnant. Research has concluded that women who do not receive an adequate amount of sleep, do not operate on a typical daily schedule or do not gain enough exposure to sunlight often experience fertility difficulties.
What Types of Supplementation Should Women Receive?
Supporters of chronobiology-based fertility suggest women looking to conceive must receive an added supply of melatonin. The chemical, produced naturally by the human body and found in small doses in a number of common foods, regulates the human sleep rhythm. In addition, melatonin stimulates the release of chemicals that help a woman’s ovaries produce progesterone and estrogen, two hormones paramount to fertility. Aside from melatonin, women can increase their fertility levels by partaking in a nutritional program rich in several vitamins, most notably amino acids and folic acid.
Chronobiology-Based Fertility and Men
Scientific research illustrates men also have “biological clocks” that can impact their fertility levels. While a number of factors such as sperm count and age play a role in male fertility, sperm motility is arguably the most critical. Sperm motility, the ability of sperm to pass from a male’s reproductive organs into a female’s, must be high to successfully complete the conception process. A recent study found sperm motility varies throughout the calendar year. Research concluded sperm to be much more motile during the summer months of July and August. Therefore, chronobiologists suggest men seeking to conceive a child make their attempts during the summertime.
What Type of Supplementation Should Men Receive?
Some men suffer from a low rate of sperm motility regardless of the season. Medical professionals believe this condition is related to a diminished level of the hormone testosterone in their bodies. In such instances, or for men intent on conceiving during a season other than summer, a therapeutic regimen of testosterone might need to be considered.
Fertility, like many other issues, can be greatly impacted by timing. Scientific research has proven that both men and women stand a better chance to conceive if they attempt to do so at the right times and supplement their bodies with substances and nutrients known for making the process easier.