I recently went in for a thorough physical and got into a discussion with the Doctor about Vitamin D deficencies and new research that shows that supplements can really make a difference for women in regards to bone strength, fatigue, rates of certain types of cancer, and in a number of different areas. I was definitely intrigued, but agreed with the doctor that my results would probably come back fine considering that I got well more than the recommended amount of sunlight each week and tuna fish and salmon are two of my favorite meals. So, I was pretty surprised when my level came back really low and not only were supplements recommended, but a prescription was advised rather than an over the counter supplementation.
The literature that I was given said that low Vitamin D is associated with bone loss and muscle weakness, as well as with increased risk for heart disease, depression, diabetes, and breast, colon and prostate cancers. It did not mention fertility but further investigating showed a definite correlation between low vitamin D levels and infertility. Most information also stated a definite link between low levels and insulin resistence, obesity, and irregular menstrual cycles. This was definitely enough to peak my interest and when I read that there seemed to be a connection between Vitamin D deficincies and PCOS I thought it definitely was information worth sharing.
Small studies conducted in the last couple of years are not widespread enough to call for a change of fertility protocol, but the findings are very interesting and promising for those suffering from PCOS. A team from the Yale University School of Medicine found that of 67 infertile women only 7 percent had normal Vitamin D levels, and not a single person suffering from ovulatory disorders or PCOS had normal Vitamin D levels. That study and other similar ones showed that in small numbers of patients Vitamin D supplements helped regulate menstrual cyles, helped with symptoms of PCOS including weight, acne, and excess hair growth, and even seemed to help a couple of the patients conceive, in addition to helping reduce cardiovascular risk factors.
I am not ready to tout Vitamin D as the miracle supplement, especially since I have not yet taken it and don’t know how it affects you. However, I think there is significant information beginning to surface that seems to highlight a benefit of having your Vitamin D levels checked. Diet is one way to get Vitamin D, as well as a small amount of exposure to sunlight. The foods recommended including green leafy vegetables, fish and dairy products are good for you regardless and it can’t hurt to try to get more Vitamin D in your diet and see if it makes a difference! In a family that has a history of osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes – you name it, it is promising to have new information about something that may be a factor in our family’s hereditary health issues – and for my personal fertility struggles, as well as those of the many other women who suffer from ovulatory disorders, PCOS, insulin resistance, or a Vitamin D deficiency that is manifesting itself in some other way that negatively affects fertility.
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