Omega-3 Supplements Boost Conception Chances by 51% - Study

randomized-controlled-trial PMID: 35147198

Quick Summary: A recent study found that women taking omega-3 supplements had a significantly higher chance of getting pregnant each month. The study showed a 51% increase in the probability of conception compared to women not taking these supplements.

What The Research Found

The research looked at whether taking omega-3 supplements could affect a woman's ability to get pregnant naturally. The study found that women who took omega-3 supplements were more likely to conceive each month. The study showed a 51% higher chance of getting pregnant for those taking omega-3s.

Study Details

Who was studied: 900 women aged 30-44 who were trying to get pregnant naturally. They had not been trying for very long (less than 3 months) and had no history of infertility.

How long: The study followed the women for a period of time, collecting data from 2008 to 2015.

What they took: The women reported whether they were taking omega-3 supplements. The study didn't specify a particular dose or brand, as women used different types of supplements.

What This Means For You

If you're trying to conceive naturally, this study suggests that taking omega-3 supplements might increase your chances. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements. They can help you determine the right dosage and ensure it's safe for you.

Study Limitations

The study wasn't a controlled trial, so it can't definitively prove that omega-3s cause higher conception rates. Other factors could be involved.

The study didn't look at specific doses of omega-3s, so it's hard to know the best amount to take.

The women in the study may have been generally more health-conscious, which could have also played a role.

Key Findings

This study found that self-reported omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was associated with a 51% higher probability of natural conception per menstrual cycle. After adjusting for age, obesity, race, prior pregnancy, and concurrent vitamin D, prenatal, and multivitamin use, the fecundability ratio (FR) was 1.51 (95% CI: 1.12–2.04). The analysis included 900 women (2,510 cycles) aged 30–44 without infertility history, attempting conception for <3 months. Results indicate a statistically significant association but cannot establish causation due to the observational design.

Study Design

This was a secondary analysis of the prospective Time to Conceive (TTC) cohort study (2008–2015). It enrolled 900 women contributing 2,510 menstrual cycles. Participants were aged 30–44, had no infertility history, and were attempting conception for <3 months. Women recorded daily menstrual events and supplement intake via the Cerner Multum Drug Database. Omega-3 use was defined as consumption on ≥20% of days per cycle. Fecundability ratios were calculated using discrete-time Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for key confounders.

Dosage & Administration

The study did not quantify specific omega-3 doses. Participants used multiple supplement types and brands with varying concentrations (e.g., fish oil, algal oil). Women reported supplement types but not exact omega-3 content (e.g., EPA/DHA amounts), preventing dose-response analysis. Administration was self-directed and unstandardized.

Results & Efficacy

Omega-3 supplementation was associated with a 51% higher conception probability per cycle (FR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.12–2.04; p<0.05). The 95% confidence interval excludes 1.0, confirming statistical significance. Adjusted models accounted for age, BMI, race, gravidity, and use of other vitamins. No absolute conception rates were reported, but the effect size remained robust after multivariable adjustment.

Limitations

The non-randomized design introduces potential confounding (e.g., omega-3 users were more likely to be younger, thinner, and health-conscious). Heterogeneous supplement formulations without dosage data prevented dose-response analysis. Self-reported supplement use risks recall bias, and the cohort excluded women with infertility or >44 years, limiting generalizability. Residual confounding by unmeasured factors (e.g., diet, lifestyle) remains possible.

Clinical Relevance

For women attempting natural conception, omega-3 supplementation may represent a low-cost, modifiable factor potentially improving fertility odds. However, as an observational study, it cannot confirm causation. Individuals should consult healthcare providers before starting supplementation, as optimal dosing remains undefined. These findings support prioritizing randomized controlled trials to validate efficacy and establish clinical guidelines for fertility enhancement.