the fertility-optimising window
improve your fertility with the
‘Making Healthy Babies’ pregnancy preparation program
Preconception preparation is essential for optimising egg maturation, as the final stages of folliculogenesis (the development of the egg) occur in the three months leading up to ovulation.
The oocyte undergoes crucial development heavily influenced by hormonal signals, mitochondrial function, and the surrounding follicular environment. This period is essential for oocyte quality and subsequent embryo viability. Here’s an overview of key events:
1. Primordial Follicle Activation (Recruitment Phase)
The oocyte starts as a dormant primordial follicle in the ovarian reserve.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) begins recruiting a cohort of antral follicles for potential selection.
Growth factors (e.g., AMH, IGF-1) and intraovarian signals regulate which follicles continue growing.
2. Preantral and Antral Follicle Growth
Granulosa cells proliferate and secrete estrogen, nurturing the oocyte.
The zona pellucida forms around the oocyte.
Mitochondria increase in number, improving ATP production (critical for meiosis resumption).
Cumulus cells enhance communication with the oocyte via gap junctions, supporting its cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation.
3. Oocyte Maturation and Dominant Follicle Selection
One follicle becomes dominant (typically by cycle day 7–9) and continues growing, while others undergo atresia.
The dominant follicle produces increasing levels of estrogen, triggering a positive feedback loop with luteinizing hormone (LH).
The oocyte remains arrested in prophase I of meiosis until the LH surge.
4. Final Maturation (Ovulatory Phase)
The LH surge induces nuclear maturation, completing meiosis I and arresting the oocyte at metaphase II.
In the day or 2 of the LH surge, before ovulation, your egg undergoes a major transformation. It executes a precise operation of separating and ejecting copies of chromosomes.
If this goes wrong, as it so often does, the egg will have chromosomal abnormalities. This is the major cause of early miscarriages and failed IVF cycles .
The oocyte is released into the fallopian tube for potential fertilization.
How the ‘Making Healthy Babies’ pregnancy preparation supports a successful pregnancy
Key Factors Influencing Oocyte Health
Mitochondrial Function: Essential for ATP production; compromised mitochondria can lead to poor-quality oocytes.
Oxidative Stress: Excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage DNA and organelles.
Hormonal Balance: Proper estrogen, FSH, and LH levels support optimal follicular development.
Nutritional Status: Adequate CoQ10, omega-3s, and antioxidants enhance mitochondrial and overall oocyte health.
1. Improving Egg Quality Through Nutrition
Antioxidants: CoQ10, vitamin C, and vitamin E help reduce oxidative stress, which can damage the egg.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Improve cellular membrane integrity and reduce inflammation.
B Vitamins (especially B9 - folate): Support DNA synthesis and repair, reducing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
Protein & Amino Acids: Aid in hormone synthesis and follicular fluid composition.
Iron & Zinc: Essential for ovulation and early embryo development.
2. Hormonal Balance & Ovarian Function
Balancing insulin and blood sugar levels: A low-glycemic, whole-food diet helps prevent insulin resistance, which can affect follicular development.
Regulating estrogen & progesterone: Proper liver detoxification (supported by cruciferous vegetables and hydration) ensures hormone balance.
Supporting thyroid function: Optimal thyroid hormone levels help regulate ovulation timing and follicle maturation.
3. Enhancing Mitochondrial Function for Energy Production
Since eggs are highly dependent on mitochondrial energy for proper division and implantation, supplements like:
CoQ10 (Ubiquinol)
L-Carnitine
Alpha-lipoic acid
support mitochondrial efficiency, improving egg viability.
4. Reducing Oxidative Stress & Inflammation
Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine minimises DNA damage to developing eggs.
Reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors (BPA, phthalates, pesticides) protects hormonal health and nutrient availability.
Prioritising stress management (meditation, acupuncture, and adaptogens like ashwagandha) lowers cortisol, which can interfere with reproductive hormones.
5. Supporting Blood Flow to the Ovaries
Regular exercise improves circulation and oxygen delivery to the ovaries.
Acupuncture & massage can enhance pelvic blood flow, promoting better follicle nourishment.
Hydration ensures proper follicular fluid quality, aiding egg transport.
6. Addressing Underlying Health Issues
PCOS management: Regulating insulin and androgens supports normal ovulation.
Endometriosis treatment: Reducing inflammation and scarring can improve egg retrieval and implantation.
Autoimmune support: Managing chronic inflammation through diet and supplementation can enhance egg quality.