How long before IVF or egg freezing should I optimize nutrition/supplements?
Aim for at least ~8–12 weeks of optimization before a retrieval cycle when possible.
You should begin optimizing your nutrition and supplements several months before IVF or egg freezing to give your body adequate time to support egg quality. While the egg freezing process itself takes about 5 weeks from start to finish, the preparation phase is where the real work happens. According to Perelel’s Dr. Andy Huang, MD, FACOG, a reproductive endocrinologist, lifestyle and nutritional optimization should ideally begin several months before the procedure to give your body the best chance of producing high-quality eggs. Dr. Huang recommends focusing on “healthy living, eating well, minimizing processed foods, and maintaining a diet rich in antioxidants” to help improve egg quality. He also emphasizes that maintaining a healthy weight and minimizing stress all contribute to healthier eggs. Perelel's Egg Freeze Support Pack is specifically formulated to provide targeted nutritional support during this preparation period, helping ensure your body has the essential nutrients needed for optimal egg quality.
Should I keep taking fertility supplements during the two-week wait?
Yes, Perelel’s Medical co-founder, Dr. Banafsheh Bayati, MD, OB/GYN, FACOG recommends continuing your prenatal vitamin routine during the two-week wait. She specifically recommends “a prenatal that addresses the conception period,” such as Perelel’s Conception Support Pack, which includes a full-spectrum prenatal plus CoQ10, omega DHA + EPA, and additional folate to support early pregnancy nutrition. Dr. Bayati emphasizes that while the ideal timeline is to start prenatal vitamins 6 months before TTC, “now is better than never” if you’re just starting. Continuing these supplements during the two-week wait ensures your nutrient levels are optimized if conception occurs, since crucial fetal development happens in the earliest weeks before you even know you’re pregnant. Avoid starting brand-new supplements during the two-week wait unless your clinician recommends it.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and we recommend that you always consult with your healthcare provider. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Perelel.
