Infertility is a complex issue affecting one in six couples, and there is often a lot of misinformation surrounding it. To clarify common misconceptions, we consulted Dr. Temeka Zore, a double board-certified OB-GYN and fertility expert, who featured on “Healthful” to discuss various aspects of fertility, including endometriosis, PMOS (previously known as PCOS), and the process of egg freezing.
Dr. Zore advises individuals who may not be ready to start a family but are considering it in the future to seek a fertility consultation. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own fertility status, stating that “having that information for yourself gives you knowledge, and knowledge is power.”
During our discussion, we addressed and clarified several myths about fertility. For a detailed exploration, you can watch the conversation on YouTube or listen to it on your preferred podcast platform.
Addressing a common belief, Dr. Zore explained that while a young woman might have a lower ovarian reserve, it does not necessarily indicate poor egg quality. “As women age, their egg count diminishes, and with that, the quality may also change,” she noted. She reassured that if a 30-year-old woman is informed of a lower ovarian reserve, it “does not mean that it’s gonna affect your fertility and it does not mean it’s a quality issue,” highlighting the nuances involved in such assessments.
Regarding egg freezing, Dr. Zore cautioned that it does not ensure future pregnancy. “Freezing your eggs is not a guarantee,” she stated. “Even if you’re 27 and freeze 100 eggs, it’s still not a guarantee. You create valuable options for yourself, but there are no certainties.”
On the topic of exercise, Dr. Zore encouraged physical activity, affirming that it is beneficial for both mental health and overall well-being. “No, please work out. Work out. It’s good for you,” she said, emphasizing the positive effects on endorphins.
Dr. Zore also clarified that there is “no magic pill” for fertility, and no supplement has been proven to significantly enhance pregnancy chances or increase live birth rates. While prenatal vitamins are beneficial for fetal health, they do not necessarily improve fertility.
Some supplements may offer certain advantages, such as vitamin D and CoQ10, according to Dr. Zore. “If taken in appropriate concentrations, they might be beneficial,” she stated. However, she cautioned that supplements are not regulated by the FDA, meaning manufacturers can make claims without needing to provide evidence of their efficacy. “Be careful because you don’t know what’s in them,” she advised.
