Trial to examine if Mediterranean diet can boost fertility for IVF couples

Scientists are launching a trial to establish whether a Mediterranean diet could help boost the fertility of couples undergoing in vitro fertilisation.

Fertility experts in Southampton are examining the use of omega-3 fish oil and vitamin D in diets taken six weeks prior to treatment — known as the pre-conception period. They want to see how these affect the quality of sperm and egg cells, the resulting embryo, and the environment of the uterus into which it must implant to achieve a pregnancy.

A total of 110 couples planning to undergo IVF will take part in the preconception dietary supplements in assisted reproduction trial.