When you’re going through IVF, every detail of your protocol is carefully planned. It is designed to work in harmony with your body’s hormonal rhythm. Many patients don’t realize that some over-the-counter supplements and herbs can disrupt this delicate balance. This includes even the “natural” ones marketed for fertility. These supplements might be safe or beneficial in a general pre-conception plan. However, during IVF, they can throw off medication timing. They may also affect hormone levels or uterine readiness.

Below is a caution list of common products to pause during your IVF cycle to protect your chances of success.

🚫 Herbs & Supplements to Avoid During IVF

Because IVF requires precise hormone control, even natural substances can interfere.

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1. Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)

• Why Avoid: Modulates estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone via pituitary signaling.
• Risk: Could interfere with hormone injections and ovulation timing.

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2. Vitex / Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus-castus)

• Why Avoid: Increases LH, shifts estrogen/progesterone balance.
• Risk: May counteract IVF medications and disrupt luteal phase support.

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3. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

• Why Avoid: Androgen precursor; can raise testosterone.
• Risk: May affect egg maturation or medication dosing if not monitored by a physician.

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4. Tribulus Terrestris

• Why Avoid: Increases androgen activity and may influence ovulation hormone patterns.
• Risk: Could alter medication effectiveness in stimulation phase.

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5. Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)

• Why Avoid: Has estrogen-like effects and can alter FSH/LH ratios.
• Risk: May disrupt IVF medication-induced follicle development.

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6. Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)

• Why Avoid: Increases uterine blood flow and has mild estrogenic action.
• Risk: May increase risk of bleeding during retrieval; may interfere with luteal support.

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7. Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

• Why Avoid: High in phytoestrogens.
• Risk: Could alter estrogen levels during stimulation.

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8. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

• Why Avoid: Influences thyroid and cortisol levels; mild hormone modulation.
• Risk: May impact stress hormones that are intentionally regulated during IVF.

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9. High-Dose Antioxidants (e.g., Mega Vitamin E or C)

• Why Avoid: In excess, can reduce oxidative stress too much, possibly impairing egg maturation signaling.
• Risk: Hormone signaling requires a balance of oxidative and anti-oxidative states.

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10. CBD / THC

• Why Avoid: Can influence reproductive hormones and affect implantation environment.
• Risk: May reduce IVF success rates per some observational studies.

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In closing, IVF requires an investment of time, money, and emotional energy. It is most effective when your body’s hormone environment is predictable. Careful management of this environment is crucial.

Supplements that influence reproductive hormones, blood flow, or stress responses can alter this balance. These changes can happen in ways that even well-meaning patients don’t anticipate.

The safest path is to keep your supplement list simple. Stick with what your reproductive endocrinologist has approved. Save certain “fertility boosters” for the pre-IVF phase or post-transfer recovery.