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The Role of Melatonin and the Circadian Rhythm in Female Reproduction

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist
July 18, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Many of us know melatonin as a tiny little pill that we take to help us fall asleep, or help us recover from jet lag. What is less known about this hormone is that it actually plays a role in female fertility.

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by mammals, some plants, and even fungi. Melatonin helps regulate many other hormones in the body and helps to maintain our circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are the physical, mental and behavioral changes that follow an internal 24-hour cycle. Think of it as a “clock” of sorts; circadian rhythms play an important role in when we wake each day and likewise when we fall asleep – referred to as our sleep-wake cycles. During light hours of the day, our natural melatonin production in the body drops and, when it is dark, the body produces more melatonin. Too little light during the day, or being exposed to light, especially bright artificial light in the evening, can disrupt the body’s normal melatonin cycles.

The Importance of Melatonin for Female Fertility

Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland located between the two hemispheres of the brain. In relation to fertility, melatonin is also produced by the follicles (eggs) within an ovary, the mass of cells that surround the follicles, and in the immature follicle itself.

Melatonin has been found to be a powerful free radical scavenger exerting strong antioxidant effects, important for supporting cellular health and protecting an immature egg from oxidative stress, especially at the time of ovulation. One small study of 115 women at the Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine in Japan showed melatonin may increase egg quality by reducing the level of one oxidizing agent called 8-OHdG in the ovum, which is a natural product of DNA oxidation.

Another study in the Journal of Ovarian Research states that, “It has been believed that melatonin regulates ovarian function by the regulation of gonadotropin release in the hypothalamus-pituitary gland axis via its specific receptors… Higher concentrations of melatonin have been found in human preovulatory follicular fluid compared to serum, and there is growing evidence of the direct effects of melatonin on ovarian function especially oocyte maturation and embryo development.”

Melatonin also helps control body temperature, the timing and release of female reproductive hormones, and possibly egg quality. In fact, melatonin has been found to control the onset of puberty in females, the frequency and duration of menstrual cycles, and even when a woman stops menstruating and enters menopause.

Preliminary evidence suggests that melatonin may help strengthen the immune system as well.

During pregnancy, melatonin in the blood passes through the placenta not only supporting its function and health, but also aiding in the creation of the fetal suprachiasmatic nucleus or SCN, where a human’s central circadian regulatory system in located. Because of its antioxidant effects, Melatonin may also protect the developing fetus from oxidative stress.

In conclusion, recent research of the role of a healthy circadian rhythm and cyclical production of melatonin is proving to be critical for optimal female reproductive hormone function, menstrual cycle timing, and ovarian function (including follicle function- both health and quality), as well as placental function.

One can influence her circadian rhythms and melatonin production simply by waking when it becomes light outside and sleeping when it is dark. While we understand that many of us are not able to sleep the entire time it is dark outside, you can create a routine that allows you to slow and enjoy calm as darkness sets in and avoid bright artificial lights (from televisions, computer screens, hand-held devices, cell phones, etc.) at least one hour before bedtime at night (No TV in bed!).

What About Supplementing Melatonin?

If you are thinking about taking melatonin to boost your fertility, you should discuss the issue with your healthcare provider or fertility specialist.

Contraindications and Side Effects
There is potential for side effects when using melatonin and possibly interactions between melatonin and medications. Speak with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist about possible side effects or drug interactions, which can also be learned here: http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/melatonin

References

  • Casper, R. F., & Gladanac, B. (2014). Circadian rhythm and its disruption: Impact on reproductive function. Fertility and Sterility, 102(2), 319-320. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.053. Retrieved from: https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(14)00464-6/fulltext
  • Circadian Rhythms Fact Sheet: (n.d.) The National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Retrieved from: http://www.nigms.nih.gov/Education/Pages/Factsheet_CircadianRhythms.aspx
  • Epigee Women’s Health. Melatonin And Fertility.(n.d.) Retrieved from: http://www.epigee.org/melatonin-and-fertility.html
  • Reiter, R. J., Tamura, H., Tan, D. X., & Xu, X. (2014). Melatonin and the circadian system: Contributions to successful female reproduction. Fertility and Sterility, 102(2), 321-328. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.06.014. Retrieved from: https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(14)00547-0/fulltext
  • Melatonin. (n.d.) University of Maryland Medical Center. Retrieved from: https://www.umms.org/ummc/patients-visitors/health-library/drug-notes/notes/melatonin-by-mouth

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About the Author

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Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett is the Senior Herbalist and Lead Educator at NaturalFertilityInfo.com. She holds a BS in Mass Communications (2000) from Minnesota State University, and a Master of Arts degree (MA, 2010) in Holistic Health Studies with a specialization is herbalism from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN. Liz has written over 200 articles on women's fertility and brings a vast wealth of knowledge and expertise in holistic health and healing to Natural Fertility Info.com

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

Mar 26

Open
🥚 In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🤯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➡️ Proper circulation
➡️ A healthy fertility cycle
➡️ Balanced hormones
➡️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

🙂 The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 26

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 25

Open
When a couple is preparing for fertility, it is a good idea for both to cleanse the body of toxins, chemicals, and excess hormones.

The chemicals, pesticides, and toxins in our environment are having a huge impact on male fertility. 

In the last 50 years, sperm counts have been cut in half.

Fertility Cleansing for men is a big step in the right direction. 

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 25

Open
How To Eat Healthier For Your Fertility 🍌🍇🍉🥒🥕

Nutrition can make a big difference when you are wanting to prepare for pregnancy, support hormonal health or overcome fertility issues.

But it can sometimes be hard to start new habits.

One of my favorite ways to make lasting dietary changes is to focus on what you can add instead of only the things you shouldn’t be eating.

There are 5 specific things I have my clients add to their current diets every day.

🍌What they found after about 21 days of eating this way, they started to not only crave healthier foods, their body was giving them positive feedback through lighter cycles, better digestion, clearer skin and more energy. ⚡

While eating healthy is something you will need to do for the rest of your life, doing a challenge like this helps to give you a great jump start.

👇 If you would like to learn more about the Important 5 and start a 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge. Type DIET in the comments below and I will send you the link 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
🚩The good news is that each of these red flags can be fixed through lifestyle upgrades and natural therapies! 

Type ‘STEPS’ in the comments below if you want to learn which steps are most important for fertility and hormone health. Let’s turn those red flags green. 💚

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 23

Open
🌱Learn how to balance your HORMONES naturally 👇

Here are 3 practical and affect ways to support your hormonal health.

One of the keys to see the best results is to stay consistent and learn as much about your body as you can.

1️⃣ Use liver supporting herbs

Herbs such as milk thistle have been shown to help the liver in it's natural ability to get rid of toxins and chemicals in the body.

This can make a big difference when it comes to hormone balance.

2️⃣ Do the Fertility Cleanse 1-2x per year

Support the body in it’s natural ability to get rid of excess hormones by doing a fertility cleanse.

3️⃣ Stop using skin care and cleaning products that contain hormone mimicking chemicals

Xenohormones mimic estrogen in the body and can cause imbalance.

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 23

Open
Should men do a Fertility Cleanse as well? 💪

A common misconception when it comes to fertility is that if there is an issue it is most likely going to be with the woman. 

This is simply not true. 

Statically fertility issues impact men just as often as women and lifestyle factors can make a big difference. 

The Male Fertility Cleanse Kit helps to support men to cleanse and detox excess hormones, toxins, increase circulation and promote hormone balance. 

👇 Drop MEN in the comments below & I will send you my Male Fertility Checklist with all the details on which herbs, supplements and foods to focus on in addition to cleansing 👇

#malefertilty #naturalfertility #gettingpregnant #fertilitytips

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
☕Reproductive Support Tea contains herbs that support, tone, and nourish the female reproductive system while supporting hormone balance.
It’s a soothing and effective fertility tea that provides just the right mixture of beneficial fertility herbs designed to help:

1️⃣ Nourish the uterus*
2️⃣ Support fallopian tube health.*
3️⃣ Help maintain normal ovarian function.*
4️⃣ Encourage normal uterine health.*
5️⃣ Support hormonal balance.

This tea is one of two teas in our Fertility Cleanse Kit. 

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

What tea are you drinking today??

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 20

Open
🥚 In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🤯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➡️ Proper circulation
➡️ A healthy fertility cycle
➡️ Balanced hormones
➡️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

🙂 The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 20

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 19

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 19

Open
What does the Fertility Cleanse Kit include and how to use the kit. 

A common misconception when it comes to fertility is that if there is an issue it is most likely going to be with the woman. 

This is simply not true. 

Statically fertility issues impact men just as often as women and lifestyle factors can make a big difference. 

The Male Fertility Cleanse Kit helps to support men to cleanse and detox excess hormones, toxins, increase circulation and promote hormone balance. 

👇 Drop MEN in the comments below & I will send you my Male Fertility Checklist with all the details on which herbs, supplements and foods to focus on in addition to cleansing 👇

#malefertilty #naturalfertility #gettingpregnant #fertilitytips

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 18

Open
Is it okay to start a kit and the Fertility Cleanse at the same time?

Do you have natural fertility questions? Type them below. We are happy to help!

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 18

Open
📈 Fertility charting will help you to better understand your current hormonal state, when or if you are ovulating and other information about your cycle that will help to bring clarity to your fertility path.

Some things you will be able to see on a fertility chart….📈

🌸Thyroid function
🌸Estrogen dominance/deficiency
🌸When and if you are ovulating
🌸Progesterone state
🌸Length of follicular phase
🌸Length of luteal phase
🌸Pregnancy

👇To begin learning how to fertility chart, type CHART into the comments below and I will share a link to my getting started to fertility charting guide. 👇 

#fertility #fertilitycharting #fertilitytips #fertilitycoach #naturalfertility

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 17

Open
The Fertility Cleanse kit is one of the best ways to prepare for conception. 

It's the first step we suggest for most couples when they start trying to get pregnant. 

With over 680 five star reviews, the Fertility Cleanse Kit is by far a customer favorite. 

You can find the Fertility Cleanse Kit on our website. Link in the bio... @naturalfertilityinfo

Want to learn more? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪
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