04/06/2026
Understanding your nutrient status can play an important role in preparing your body for conception and supporting a healthy pregnancy. 💚
As part of our series on key nutrients to test when preparing for pregnancy, we’re highlighting another important nutrient involved in fertility and early pregnancy.
Today, we’re diving into Vitamin B12 🌟
Vitamin B12 is involved in DNA methylation, which is required for normal embryonic gene expression. Synthesis, repair, and methylation of DNA are also crucial for gametogenesis, fertilization and pregnancy.
Deficiencies in vitamin B12 have been associated with neural tube defects along with deficiencies in folic acid. Hypomethylation of DNA due to vitamin B12 deficiency has been associated with a buildup of homocysteine which can lead to oxidative stress and poorer fertility outcomes.
In women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF, higher serum vitamin B12 levels have been associated with higher quality embryos, and a higher probability of live birth rates. ✨
Wherever you are in your fertility journey, make sure to ask your naturopathic doctor about nutrient testing.