Nutrients, supplements & vitamins for Female Fertility with endometriosis or adenomyosis: the science
Title: Endometriosis and Fertility: The Best Vitamins and Supplements to Support Natural Conception in endometriosis and adenomyosis
Subtitle:
Evidence-Based, Non-Hormonal Nutritional Strategies for inflammation, oxidative stress and egg quality to support natural fertility in endometriosis and adenomyosis
Written by fertility nutrition expert, Dr. Conor Kerley
Dr. Conor Kerley is a multi-award winning nutrition researcher, leading clinician as well as a member of the European Fertility Society and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)
An intro to my personal interest in endometriosis
I as invited to speak at the 2019 Endometriosis of Ireland conference. At the time I had never even heard of endometriosis. So I did my research, prepared a presentation and spent the day at the conference where I was shocked to learn of how common, severe and neglected endometriosis was and still is. I made it my mission to use my own expertise to try and help all with endometriosis…but a few months later COVID-19 hit and changed the world, including my own plans.
But fast forward a few years and the movie ‘Below The Belt’ was being screened in Dublin. I went along for my own learning and before the movie started, my little cousin sat in the seat directly in front of me. It was then that I found out my own cousin has endometriosis. I took this as a sign to get back involved in endometriosis. I was invited back to speak at the 2024 and 2025 Endometriosis of Ireland conferences.
I collected, read and analyzed every single research study regarding nutrients, vitamins, supplements and endometriosis. I then became interested in fertility and also collected, read and analyzed every single research study regarding nutrients, vitamins, supplements and fertility. I was interested in learning how some nutrients could directly benefit endometriosis but also improve fertility outcomes…
There is a lack of research on endometriosis in general and even less regarding nutrition, nutrients and supplements in relation to endometriosis. However, the research that does exist is very encouraging.
What is endometriosis
Endometriosis is where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This abnormal tissue growth can occur on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and sometimes other organs in the pelvic cavity. Although rare, endometriosis can appear in more distant parts of the body.
Endometriosis is relatively common, affecting an estimated 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide However, up to 50% female fertility cases can be linked to endometriosis. Endometriosis can affects teenagers - although it’s often diagnosed later due to delayed recognition of symptoms.
Endometriosis should be thought of as a whole body, inflammatory condition.
Common endometriosis symptoms
Pain: The most common symptom is pelvic pain, especially during menstruation, sexual intercourse, or bowel movements.
Menstrual Irregularities: Heavy periods (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods.
Fertility Issues: Endometriosis can cause scarring and adhesions, which may lead to difficulties conceiving.
Other Symptoms: Fatigue, bloating, digestive issues, or painful urination if the tissue affects other organs.
Note, sometimes endometriosis does not cause symptoms (silent endometriosis) and the endometriosis is only discovered when fertility issues are experienced.
What is the cause of endometriosis?
The exact cause is unknown, but several theories exist:
· Retrograde Menstruation: Menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity.
· Immune System Dysfunction: The body may fail to recognize and destroy endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus.
· Genetic Factors: A family history of endometriosis increases risk.
· Hormonal Influence: Owstrogen promotes the growth of endometrial tissue.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis often involves:
- Medical History and Symptom Assessment
- Pelvic Exam
- Imaging: Ultrasound or MRI may identify cysts (endometriomas) but can’t always detect small lesions.
- Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure where doctors look inside the pelvic cavity and may take a biopsy—the gold standard for diagnosis.
Endometriosis diagnosis is often delayed—sometimes by by to 10 years This is because symptoms like painful periods are sometimes considered ‘normal’ and definitive diagnosis requires surgery (laparoscopy).
How is endometriosis treated?
Treatment depends on severity, symptoms, and desire for pregnancy:
- Medications:
- Pain relievers (e.g. NSAIDs)
- Hormonal therapy (birth control pills, progestins, GnRH agonists)
- Surgery:
- Laparoscopic removal of endometrial lesions
- In severe cases, hysterectomy. Hysterectomy involves the removal of a womans uterus and mena a future pregnancy is NOT possible.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Diet, exercise, and stress management can help control endometriosis symptoms
Endometriosis is a chronic condition and can affect quality of life, but with proper management, symptoms can often be controlled, and fertility may be improved.
Emerging human research suggests that specific nutrients can influence
· Regulation of hormone (e.g. oestrogen)
· Inflammation,
· Oxidative stress,
· Mitochondrial dysfunction,
· angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth),
· cell proliferation (the rate at which cell multiply),
· Fertility difficulties
Therefore specific nutrients in specific doses offer non-hormonal support for women with endometriosis and adenomyosis
Top Supplements to Support Fertility in Endometriosis
The nutrients which have been shown in human research studies to improve inflammation and oxidatie stress in women with endometriosis include:
Alpha Lipoic acid - 400 to 800mg
N acetyl cysteine (NAC) – 600mg
Vitamin B9 (methyl folate) - 400mcg
Vitamin D3 – 50mcg (2,000IU)
Zinc – 10mg
Vitamins B5
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
These 8 nutrients can affect:
· Regulation of hormone (e.g. oestrogen)
· Inflammation,
· Oxidative stress,
· Mitochondrial dysfunction,
· angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth),
· cell proliferation (the rate at which cell multiply),
· Fertility difficulties
Because these 8 nutrients are backed by specific research in women with endometriosis, they represent the best supplements for endometriosis fertility.
For more details on the science of these nutrients, see below near the bottom of this blog.
There is also some research suggesting that myo-inositol and carnitine are beneficial for endometriosis.
Women with endometriosis actively trying to conceive or planning a pregnancy in the future, should consider supplementing these 6 nutrients as well as specific nutrients to improve egg quality, such as:
· Additional B vitamins especially B2, B6 and B12
· Arginine
· Carnitine
· Chromium
· D-chiro inositol,
· Green tea extract
· Iodine
· Myo-inositol
· N acetyl carnitine
· Omega 3
· Selenium
Collectively, these nutrients target the key physiological drivers of endometriosis-related infertility:
· Inflammation,
· Regulation of hormones (e.g. oestrogen),
· Oxidative stress,
· Mitochondrial dysfunction,
· Fertility difficulties
Because research-backed doses matter. But combining these individual nutrients correctly can be complex, requiring multiple supplements and careful dosing.
Fertility Phix is an all in one fertility supplement and was formulated to provide these research-backed nutrients in clinically relevant doses, alongside additional compounds that support egg quality, hormone balance, oxidative stress reduction and mitochondrial function - all in one convenient supplement. Fertility Phix has already helped several ladies with endometriosis, to become pregnant – check out these reviews
If you have endometriosis and are trying to conceive, targeted nutritional support may be a valuable part of your strategy. Explore Fertility Phix here or contact us to discuss whether it is right for you.
Who is Fertility Phix suitable for?
Anybody on a fertility journey who wants to provide themselves with a comprehensive mix of research backed nutrients.
When to start Fertility Phix?
Lifestyle changes, including supplements are recommended for at least 3 months before conception. This is because a woman’s eggs take approximately 3 to 4 months (roughly 90-120 days) to mature -this is why we offer a 3 month bundle where if you add 3 boxes Fertility Phix sachets to your cart, you save a massive 60 euro and get free shipping anywhere in the world!
Key Takeaways
• Endometriosis affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age
• Insulin resistance, excess androgens, Oxidative stress and inflammation play a role
• Specific nutrients (acid NAC, Vitamin D) show promise for endometriosis
• Nutritional support should begin at least 3 months before conception
Frequently asked questions
Can women with endometriosis conceive naturally?
Can I take supplements while trying to conceive with endometriosis?
Note, fertility issues are NOT female only. About half of fertility issues can be related to the male partner. If you are a lady trying to conceive, make sure your male partner has been tested, is following a fertility friendly lifestyle and check our these blogs:
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm count - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm motility - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm morphology - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm DNA fragmentation - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and varicocele - The Science
In addition to uterine endometriosis, other common conditions contributing to fertility issues in women, include:
Advanced age
Antiphospholipid syndrome
Endometriosis
Fibroids
Hypothalamic amenorrhea
Lupus
PCOS
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)
Thyroid issues, especially Hashimoto's or autoimmune thyroiditis
More details on the science of these nutrients and supplements for supporting endometriosis
Please note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice.
· Not all supplements are appropriate for everyone. Always consult your GP or fertility specialist before starting supplements, particularly if undergoing assisted reproductive treatment.
· Timing matters – lifestyle changes, including supplements are recommended for at least 3 months before conception. This is because a woman’s eggs take approximately 3 to 4 months (roughly 90-120 days) to mature before ovulation, in a process known as folliculogenesis.
· Dosing matters – scientific research has reported benefits of certain doses. It is important to seek out and consume these doses to get the same benefits.
