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Iron Supplements Prevent Infertility

According to a new study conducted by researchers at the Harvard University, lack of iron could be linked to infertility.

The researchers at the Harvard University, who examined nearly 18,000 nurses, suggested that women taking iron supplements are more protected against infertility compared to those who do not take extra iron.

"Women who consumed nonheme iron had a significantly lower risk of infertility due to ovulation when compared to women who were consuming low iron or heme iron," stated Dr. Jorge E. Chavarro, co-author of the study.

All participants at the study were women trying to get pregnant. These women included in the research had to answer several questions related to their lifestyle, habits and diet.

The study indicated that taking iron supplements regularly increase the probability of becoming pregnant to 40 percent.

"It's important that the results are reproduced, but the results suggest that women who are trying to get pregnant should consider having greater amounts of iron in their diet from non-animal sources including multivitamin supplements," said Dr. Jorge E. Chavarro.

The findings were published in the latest edition of "Obstetrics & Gynecology".

However, the researchers concluded that further studies are required to prove the beneficial effect iron supplements have on ovulation and conception.

"This is just one study. We need more studies with larger numbers to indicate what exact level of iron supplement is ideal for women attempting conception," said Dr. Jennifer Wu. at the Lenox Hill Hospital in New York.