Implantation is a pretty intricate process. It requires the perfect microenvironment, in need of the right balance of nutrients, electrolytes, “good inflammation”, oxygen, blood flow, and more. In this post, I discuss 5 things you should be considering when trying to support your implantation. This is suitable for those trying naturally as well as those preparing for an embryo transfer.

5 Factors to Support Implantation

1. Vitamin D status

Vitamin D is utilized in every step of the reproductive pathways, and may also influence implantation. The active form of vitamin D has been shown to regulate the genes associated with placental development, normal implantation, and angiogenesis (the formation of blood vessels). Additionally, one theory for abnormal implantation is an inappropriate immune response between mom and baby which is another way Vitamin D may be helping. Finally, the structural changes required in placental development were more favorable in those who supplemented vitamin D. (PMID: 17535985) 

I strongly suggest getting your levels tested, so we can suggest the appropriate dose for you. There is no global vitamin D dose that is suitable for everyone, it must be tailored.

2. Inflammation

The role of the immune system during implantation is complex, and something we need to learn more about. We know we want a little bit of inflammation, but not too much. If you’re taking “anti-inflammatories” like ibuprofen or natural supplements, you’ll want to discuss this with your health care provider to make sure it’s appropriate. Nutrition is a core factor when it comes to managing inflammation. Fueling your body with antioxidants (i.e an abundance of vegetables), and limiting foods that are more inflammatory (sugar, processed foods, alcohol), can go a long way. If there is an inflammatory condition or autoimmune condition - we can take it a step further. I like IV nutrient therapy as an added support. Vitamin C is great for supporting your immune system, your mast cells (allergy cells which also play a role in implantation), and has been shown to boost progesterone levels. (PMID: 12909517)

3. Microbiome

An imbalance in the uterine microbiome may play a role in implantation. Imbalance in the uterine microbiome was shown to be a factor in early pregnancy loss. If you’ve got a history of poor digestive function (IBS, irregular bowel movement, bloating etc.), or vaginal infections (i.e. yeast or BV), this may be an area was want to test and treat. Some fertility clinics, such as Olive Fertility, provide testing of your uterine microbiome. Read more about this here.

4. Nutrition

One of the biggest things I see with my patients is chronic under-fueling. Life gets busy, we skip meals, and the net result is not enough macronutrients in the day. Low caloric intake can directly influence our hormones and has been shown to increase the risk of menstrual spotting. This is not helpful during implantation. We need to make sure you’re getting enough protein for your body, and enough calories to provide the required amount of fuel for implantation. If you’re struggling in these areas, let’s make a game plan. (PMID: 31539053)

5. Blood flow and oxygen

Blood carries our oxygen. Oxygen is our main fuel source for making energy. It is required for our mitochondria; the batteries of our cells. Implantation and placental development require an immense amount of energy. This means we want good blood flow and oxygen. Daily movement and exercise are huge. Too little movement, we don’t get enough blood flow or oxygen, too much and we increase inflammation. Moderation is key. Acupuncture and laser therapy can also be great here. Speak to an Acubalance practitioner to see what this would look like for you.

"I'm looking for more specific support for implantation."

There may be other factors to consider. 

Thin lining? We may look at adjusting your supplement to support your endometrial lining. 

Low progesterone? We may look at giving you some! Supplementing progesterone has been studied for short luteal phases and recurrent pregnancy loss. If you’re not maintaining your lining, this may influence implantation. Supplementing may be suitable in some cases. 

Spotting? We might want to dig deeper and run some blood work.

For more info, schedule a discovery call and we can review what’s going for you and how we can help.

In Health,

Dr. Ashley

Naturopathic Doctor – Vancouver, BC