Folate is a vital nutrient that plays a significant role in supporting fertility and pregnancy. For women trying to conceive, understanding the importance of folate before conception can be a crucial step in a proactive fertility journey. If you’ve been wondering whether or not *folate helps you conceive*, you’re not alone. This article will explore how folate influences fertility, the role it plays in preparing your body for pregnancy, and why taking it three months before conception can make a world of difference.

## The importance of taking folate for three months before trying to conceive

Folate, a water-soluble B-vitamin, is well-known for its critical role in pregnancy, but it also plays a major role in fertility. Adequate folate levels prior to conception are essential for both preconception health and the early stages of pregnancy. Research highlights that folate can help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs), support DNA synthesis, and maintain healthy homocysteine levels—all important factors when trying to conceive.

However, folate isn’t just about avoiding birth defects. When it comes to fertility, there’s growing evidence suggesting that folate may also play a part in improving egg quality and [sperm health](https://www.conceivio.com/resources/5-foods-to-improve-sperm-quality), potentially making it easier to conceive. For many women, understandinghow folate supports fertility involves exploring its multifaceted role in preconception health.

## What is folate?

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9, which is found in food sources like leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans, and whole grains. Folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is commonly used in supplements and fortified foods. It is essential for cell division, DNA synthesis, and tissue growth, and plays an important role in reproductive health.

Approximately 35% of women of reproductive age in the UK have a folate deficiency, and replenishing folate stores before conception is crucial. This process can take up to three months, so it’s important to start supplementation early.

Taking the oral contraceptive pill can also reduce folate levels in the body. After discontinuing the pill, it may take up to three months for folate levels to return to normal, which is why it's recommended to begin folate supplementation at least three months before trying to conceive.

## Why is folate so important during pregnancy?

While folate’s role in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) is the most commonly known benefit, it also supports several other key functions during pregnancy:

### 1. Prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs)

Folate is critical for preventing NTDs, which affect the brain and spine. These defects occur very early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she’s pregnant. Having adequate folate levels [ensures](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3262611/) proper development of the neural tube and reduces the risk of these serious birth defects.

### 2. Supports DNA synthesis

Folate plays a [crucial role](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3262611/) in DNA creation and repair, processes that are vital during early pregnancy when cell division and rapid growth occur. By ensuring adequate folate intake, you support proper cell development, which is key in a healthy pregnancy.

### 3. Encourages healthy placenta growth

Folate is [involved](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32032459/) in the formation of the placenta, which provides nutrients to the growing baby. This nutrient-rich environment is essential for fetal development.

### 4. Controls homocysteine levels

High homocysteine levels are linked to early miscarriages and pregnancy complications. Folate helps [regulate](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7497502/) these levels, supporting a healthy pregnancy. Elevated homocysteine can increase the risk of complications, but folate can help manage this by reducing levels to a healthier range, as highlighted in several studies.

## Why begin three months before conception?

The first 28 days of pregnancy are crucial for the development of the neural tube, which forms the baby’s brain and spine. Because many women don’t realise they’re pregnant during this early stage, starting folate supplementation three months before trying to conceive is essential to ensure that the body has optimal levels of folate available when needed.

**Here’s why starting folate before conception is vital:**

- **Egg quality:** Oocyte maturation takes about three months. During this time, folate helps ensure that eggs mature properly and reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities that can lead to miscarriage.
- **Building up optimal levels:** It takes time for your body to replenish folate stores and reach the required levels, making early supplementation crucial. By starting three months before conception, you ensure your body has the right amount of folate at the right time.
- **Preparation for rapid cell division:** Early pregnancy involves rapid cell division, which requires an adequate supply of folate to support proper development.

## Can folate help with fertility?

While folate is often recommended for pregnant women, there is growing interest in whether it can also help with fertility. Research suggests that folate can improve egg quality, reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility, and potentially even enhance the chances of conception. 

A study published in [*PMC*](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3262611/) found that women with higher levels of folate in their system had a better chance of conceiving, possibly because folate supports healthy oocyte maturation and egg development.

In particular, folate may have a positive impact on women who experience infertility due to poor egg quality. Several studies suggest that women with higher levels of folate have improved fertility outcomes. 

Moreover, folate plays an important role in sperm health as well, which is critical for couples who are trying to conceive. A study [found](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32032459/) that adequate folate intake is associated with improved sperm quality and reduced risk of sperm DNA fragmentation, which could enhance fertility in men.

## Natural sources vs. supplements

While natural food sources of folate - such as spinach, beans, and broccoli - are beneficial, they may not always provide sufficient amounts of the nutrient. This is why many healthcare professionals recommend folate supplementation, particularly for women who are planning to conceive. It is often difficult to get the optimal daily intake of folate through diet alone, and supplementation can help ensure that the body is adequately prepared.

Before starting supplementation, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right dosage for your needs.

## Folate and overall fertility health

Maintaining adequate folate levels is essential not just for pregnancy but also for general fertility health. Research has suggested that folate may play a role in supporting a healthy reproductive system by reducing oxidative stress, improving hormonal balance, and promoting optimal functioning of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. As part of a comprehensive fertility plan, folate supplementation can enhance overall reproductive health and increase the chances of successful conception.

## Will folate increase fertility?

While folate supplementation alone may not guarantee pregnancy, it does provide significant support for women trying to conceive. By ensuring that your body has the nutrients it needs to optimise egg quality, support sperm health, and prevent pregnancy complications, folate supplementation helps create an environment that is conducive to conception.

If you’re wondering *will folate increase fertility*, the answer is yes—when taken as part of a broader fertility and health strategy, folate can improve the chances of conception and support a healthy pregnancy.

## Ready to conceive? Here's why folate should be part of your plan

So, *does folate help you conceive*? Absolutely. By taking folate supplements three months before trying to conceive, you not only ensure that your body is ready for a healthy pregnancy but also give yourself the best possible chances of successful conception. Folate supports key aspects of fertility, such as egg quality, sperm health, DNA synthesis, and neural tube development. Whether you’re just beginning your fertility journey or have been trying for some time, starting folate supplementation can be an important first step towards achieving your goals.

Discover why taking folate 3 months before conception is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, reducing the risk of neural tube defects.

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Does Folate Help You Conceive?

Does Folate Help You Conceive?