• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Nutrition Pregnancy

Cod Liver Oil Essential for Healthy Fertility and Pregnancy

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 26, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Optimal nutrition is essential for maintaining healthy fertility, but it is also extremely important for pregnancy. Everything you eat will be making your baby’s body. Studies have shown that omega-3 essential fatty acids, found in cod liver oil, not only support healthy fertility, but proper formation of your baby’s nervous system, brain, eyes and heart. Cod liver oil is an essential tool to help ensure you are getting enough essential fatty acids in your diet.

Cod Liver Oil & Fertility

Omega-3 fats contain two acids that are crucial to good health: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). These two acids have been shown to be extremely healthy for the body. Low levels of DHA and EPA have been linked to depression and other mental health issues. DHA is essential for proper brain development, while EPA supports healthy behavior and mood. DHA and EPA combined have greater health benefits than taking a supplement with just one of those essential fatty acids.

Omega-3 acids have been shown to help fertility by:

  • Aiding in hormonal regulation
  • Increasing and promoting healthy cervical mucus production
  • Promoting regular ovulation
  • Decreasing inflammatory fertility issues such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts
  • Reducing painful menstruation known as dysmenorrhea
  • Improving the quality of the uterus by increasing the blood flow to the reproductive organs
  • Supporting proper sperm production

Pregnancy Preparation
It is important to have a plentiful supply of essential fatty acids before becoming pregnant. Continue to eat fish or take fish oil supplements during pregnancy to maintain optimal health. If your diet contains enough omega-3 EFAs now, your baby’s needed supply will easily be met. If your diet is lacking, your baby will need to draw omega-3s from your own internal stores, which can lead to a long-term deficit that can negatively affect you and your baby’s health. Taking cod liver oil daily helps you to get adequate amounts of omega-3s and build your stores for pregnancy.

Sperm Health
DHA, one of the fatty acids contained in cod liver oil, has a significant impact on the viability and health of sperm. When there are not enough fatty acids present, cholesterol replaces the needed fatty acid in the sperm membrane. This prevents sperm from proper maturation.

By increasing the intake of essential fatty acids through the consumption of fish or cod liver oil, the resulting sperm are healthier, have better motility, and the chances of a successful conception increase.

Cod Liver Oil & Pregnancy

During pregnancy, essential fatty acids are important for your baby’s brain, nervous system, eye, and heart development. DHA is necessary in high concentrations for proper brain function, including proper development and cognitive function. Low levels of DHA are linked to premature birth, low birth weight, and hyperactivity in children. DHA is an important component for a healthy central nervous system. EPA is necessary for a healthy circulatory system.

A study published in Pediatrics (2003; 111:e39–44) showed that mothers who took cod liver oil every day in pregnancy and 3 months postpartum while breastfeeding, had more intelligent children than mothers who did not. Other studies are showing that babies born to mothers with high levels of DHA do better with visual acuity and visual learning tests. By optimizing development with an omega-3 supplement rich in DHA and EPA, studies show that your baby will enjoy enhanced attention span and cognitive function after the birth, which will help them learn more effectively as they grow.

Having a sufficient level of DHA and EPA in your system is thought to help prevent miscarriage and premature delivery. Premature birth occurs in as many as 6 –10% of births and increases the risk of physical and learning disabilities. DHA and EPA together in pregnancy has been shown to lengthen gestation time.

Increasing your intake of essential fatty acids can result in an increased sense of well-being and health for yourself during pregnancy. Omega-3s have been shown to be instrumental in preventing complications in pregnancy like preeclampsia, which can endanger the lives of both mother and baby. It may also lower the risk of postpartum depression after your baby is born.

Breastfeeding
Continuing to take cod liver oil while breastfeeding has been shown to provide adequate amounts of DHA and EPA to your baby. Taking cod liver oil while breastfeeding ensures your baby is getting adequate amounts of essential fatty acids needed for development. Most formulas are devoid of DHA and EPA. Some contain DHA, but not with EPA. DHA and EPA together have complimentary benefits that cannot be achieved alone. Breastfeeding your baby while also taking cod liver oil aids in continued proper development of your baby.

Cod Liver Oil is a Natural Source of Vitamin A & D3

Cod liver oil is an excellent source of fat soluble vitamins A and D3. Studies have shown that the typical American diet is lacking in these vitamins. Primitive human diets have been found to have 10 times higher vit. A and D than modern diets.

Vitamin A is essential for:

  • Proper development of the retina and vision
  • Gene transcription
  • Immune function
  • Reproductive health
  • Embryonic development
  • Skin and cellular health
  • Antioxidant activity

Vitamin D3 is essential for:

  • Proper bone formation, through concentration of calcium and phosphate in the blood
  • Proliferation and differentiation of cells
  • Neuromuscular function
  • Inflammation response

Getting the Facts Straight About Vitamin A and Birth Defects
Some studies have shown that consuming too much vitamin A may cause birth defects. This only happens with synthetic forms of water-soluble forms of vitamin A, when consumed in very high amounts. High quality cod liver oil contains fat soluble vitamin A in its natural form. When vitamin A is taken as a whole food source like it is in cod liver oil, it is not toxic to developing babies. When vitamin A is combined with vitamin D, it has been shown that the vitamin D protects the body from vitamin A toxicity. This allows the human body to withstand higher levels of vitamin A. That being said, it is still important to not exceed dosage of cod liver oil and to always follow recommended guidelines on the product label.

Besides a healthy diet which includes fish and organ meats, there is no better way to provide healthy DHA, EPA, as well as naturally occurring vitamin A and D3, than with a high-quality cod liver oil supplement.

Click here to shop for Fertilica ™ Cod Liver Oil

References

  • Kidd, P. M. (2007). Omega­3 DHA and EPA for cognition, behavior, and mood: clinical findings and
    structural­ functional synergies with cell membrane phospholipids. Alternative medicine review, 12(3), 207. Retrieved from: http://archive.foundationalmedicinereview.com/publications/12/3/207.pdf
  • ­Jensen, C. L., Voigt, R. G., Prager, T. C., Zou, Y. L., Fraley, J. K., Rozelle, J. C., . . . Heird, W. C. (2005). Effects of maternal docosahexaenoic acid intake on visual function and neurodevelopment in breastfed term infants. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 82(1), 125-132. doi:10.1093/ajcn.82.1.125 Retrieved from: https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/82/1/125/4863316
  • Yance, Donald R., C.N., M.H., R.H.(AHG). (2013) Adaptogens in Medical Herbalism ­ Elite Herbs and Natural Compounds for Mastering Stress, Aging and Chronic Disease; Fish Oil Rich in EPA and DHA: pp. 427-­433.
  • DHA ­ EPA Omega 3 Institute. (n.d.) What is the difference between DHA from fish oil vs. flaxseed? Retrieved from: http://www.dhaomega3.org/FAQ/What-is-the-difference-between-DHA-from-fish-oil-vs-flaxseed
  • Bastyr Center for Natural Health. (2003) Health Notes­ Cod Liver Oil During Pregnancy Makes Babies Smarter.
  • DHA ­ EPA Omega 3 Institute. (n.d.) Why consume both DHA and EPA during pregnancy? Retrieved from: http://www.dhaomega3.org/FAQ/Are-both-DHA-and-EPA-needed-for-prenatal-health
  • Fallon, Sally., Enig, Mary G, PhD. (2/8/2009) Cod Liver Oil Basics and Recommendations. Retrieved from: https://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/cod-liver-oil/cod-liver-oil-basics-and-recommendations
  • Murray, Michael T., N.D. (1996). Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements The Essential Guide for Improving Your Health Naturally; Vitamin A and Carotenes: pp. 19­-38; Vitamin D: pp. 39-­43.; Essential Fatty Acid Supplementation: pp. 249-­278. New York: Three Rivers Press.
  • Rodriguez, Hethir, C.H., C.M.T. (n.d.) Omega 3­6­9, Essential Supplement for Fertility and Pregnancy. Retrieved from: https://natural-fertility-info.com/essential-fatty-acid-fertility

« Previous Post
DHEA and Your Natural Fertility
Next Post »
Wild Yam: Herb for Reproductive System Support in Women

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
Q: Does having PMS mean hormonal imbalance?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
What you are doing today is impacting the health of your eggs 90 days from now. Let's pamper those eggs! 
​
​If you are wondering where to get started, download my egg health guide at www.EggHealthTips.com

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read her story... 
​
​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us