By Ms. Cindy Sim
Senior Registered Nurse

This World Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a year-long campaign encouraging a focus on maternal and newborn health. At Danai Medi-Wellness, we believe that it is important to go beyond that.

A healthy pregnancy begins well before conception. Factors such as your diet, lifestyle and genetic makeup significantly impact fertility, fetal development and pregnancy outcomes. Thanks to advancements in genetic testing and personalised nutrition, couples can now take a proactive approach by addressing potential risks and nutritional needs even before getting pregnant.

Dynamics of DNA
Genetic testing can provide valuable insights into your reproductive health by identifying potential inherited conditions, nutritional deficiencies and metabolism factors that may impact pregnancy.

Among others, DNA testing can reveal: 

• Carrier Status – Detects if you or your partner carry genetic conditions such as Thalassemia and cystic fibrosis
• Nutritional Needs – Identifies how your body processes essential vitamins and minerals like folate, iron and vitamin D
• Metabolism & Hormonal Health – Helps assess risks related to weight management, insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances 
• Medication Response – Determines how your body metabolises certain medications, ensuring safer prenatal care

Here at Danai Medi-Wellness, our ExâGene DNA Lifestyle Genetic Analysis offers comprehensive insights into your genetic profile, paving the way for you to make informed choices about your diet, supplementation and lifestyle to support a healthy pregnancy.


Supplementation Just for You
As you begin your journey towards parenthood, your body might need a bit of help to ensure a healthy pregnancy and childbirth. Here are some of the key nutrients a woman (and her partner) might need to address potential nutrient deficiencies and increase their chances of getting pregnant.

I.  Folic Acid

Folic acid, also called Vitamin B9, is a key nutrient that helps prevent birth defects in the baby’s brain and spine. Women of childbearing age should aim for at least 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid each day, while those trying to get pregnant may need higher doses to boost fertility. Taking higher amounts of folic acid has also been linked to a lower risk of not ovulating and may help shorten the time it takes to get pregnant.

II. Other B Vitamins

Vitamin B12 and B6 also play a role in fertility. They help keep homocysteine, an amino acid, at safe levels. Studies have shown that high homocysteine levels combined with low folic acid can increase the risk of miscarriage. Other research suggests that having enough vitamin B12 is important for successful fertility treatments, like in vitro fertilisation (IVF). In fact, a lack of vitamin B12 could lead to poor embryo quality in IVF patients.

III, Vitamin D

Some studies suggest that taking vitamin D supplements may help improve fertility in both men and women. A review of research showed that women with infertility who took Vitamin D for 30 to 60 days were more likely to get pregnant compared to those who didn’t take the supplement. Furthermore, Vitamin D deficiency is common in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that can reduce fertility. It is thought that vitamin D can help improve PCOS and, in turn, boost fertility. Taking vitamin D supplements may also lower the risk of complications for both the mother and baby, even for women without PCOS.

IV. Fish Oil

Fish oil supplements, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, are known for supporting heart health, but they may also benefit reproductive health. One study found that women who took omega-3 supplements had higher chances of getting pregnant. Besides that, although there isn’t much research on omega-3s for healthy men and women, studies suggest that these supplements can help women with infertility or those undergoing treatments like IVF.

V. CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance that your body naturally produces. It acts as an antioxidant and can help reduce oxidative stress, which may affect fertility. Some women take CoQ10 before undergoing IVF in hopes of improving egg quality. It is also sometimes given to women with PCOS to help with ovulation. CoQ10 might also improve sperm quality, including motility and concentration.

VI. SeleniumSelenium is an important trace mineral that helps build proteins and acts as an antioxidant, which may support fertility. Some research suggests that not getting enough selenium can increase the risk of miscarriage, harm the fetus, or cause other pregnancy problems. In men, a lack of selenium can cause poor-quality semen. One review found that selenium supplements might help protect female fertility by boosting antioxidant levels and increasing the number of healthy eggs. However, selenium supplements may only be helpful for people who have a selenium deficiency.

Getting the nutrients needed to support fertility is vital. Nevertheless, not all prenatal vitamins are one-size-fits-all, and not everybody will have the same nutritional requirements. Exânutrix Personalised Supplements are tailored to your genetic and nutritional needs, making it easier for you to bridge gaps and optimise fertility and pregnancy health.

Are you looking to expand your family? Contact us to see how you and your baby can get the best start possible!

Get to know me:
Ms. Cindy Sim understands the physical and emotional toll pregnancy can take on a woman’s body and is driven to support future parents through this transformative journey.