Empowering Health from Pre- Conception to Postpartum through Personalised Nutrition Support.

Supporting women’s health from pre-conception to postpartum with personalised, science-based nutrition care

Preparing for pregnancy whether naturally or through IVF starts long before conception, and nutrition plays a central role in every stage of the journey. From supporting fertility and early foetal development to easing pregnancy symptoms and promoting healthy breastfeeding, the right dietary choices can make a meaningful difference. This Q&A breaks down the most common questions people ask, using simple explanations and peer-reviewed evidence to guide you through what to eat, what to avoid, and how to nourish your body during pre-conception, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery.

Q1. Is diet important before conception?

Nutrition before conception sets the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. Adequate intake of essential nutrients like folic acid can reduce the risk of birth defects and support early foetal development¹. A balanced diet also helps in achieving a healthy body weight, which is crucial for conception and a healthy pregnancy outcome²,³.

Q2. How can nutrition support IVF?

Nutrition plays a vital role in enhancing fertility and supporting assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. A diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential vitamins can improve egg and sperm quality, while maintaining a healthy weight can increase the chances of successful conception⁴-⁶.

Q3. What foods and supplements can I consume during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it is essential to focus on adequate intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins³. Maintain proper hydration to support increased blood volume and amniotic fluid³. Avoid foods that pose a risk of foodborne illnesses, such as unpasteurised dairy, undercooked meats or seafood, and soft cheeses³.

Q4. What supplements should I take if I'm pregnant?

During pregnancy, key supplements include folic acid to prevent neural tube defects¹, iron to support increased blood volume², calcium for foetal bone development³, vitamin D for bone and immune health⁴, iodine for brain development⁵, and omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) for foetal brain and eye growth⁶. Additional supplements may be recommended based on your individual needs and blood tests, so always consult your healthcare provider before starting anything new.

Q5. Can I manage pregnancy symptoms with food?

Certain dietary adjustments can alleviate common pregnancy symptoms. For morning sickness, consuming small, frequent meals and including ginger or vitamin B6 supplements as recommended may help reduce nausea⁷,⁸. Constipation can be alleviated by increasing fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while ensuring adequate fluid consumption⁷,⁸. To combat fatigue, maintaining stable blood sugar levels by eating balanced meals and snacks throughout the day can help support energy levels⁷.

Q6. What nutritional support is beneficial during breastfeeding and postpartum recovery?

Postpartum nutrition is crucial for recovery and lactation. Increasing caloric intake helps support milk production, with a focus on nutrient-dense foods⁹,¹⁰. Staying well-hydrated is important to maintain milk supply⁹. Continuing to consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports healing and energy levels¹⁰,¹¹.

References

1. World Health Organization. Periconceptional folic acid supplementation to prevent neural tube defects. Geneva: WHO; 2015. Available from: https://www.who.int/elena/interventions/folate-periconceptional

2. Pavord S, Daru J, et al. UK guidelines on the management of iron deficiency in pregnancy. Br J Haematol. 2012;156:588–600.

3. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Maternal and child nutrition: Evidence review C. London: NICE; 2025.

4. Crysta IVF. Does Nutrition Affect IVF Success Rates? Available from: https://crystaivf.com/fertility-health/nutrition-and-ivf-success

5. Fertility Institute of San Diego. 7 Roles of Nutrition in IVF Success: Key Factors to Consider. Available from: https://fertilityinstitutesandiego.com/blog/7-roles-of-nutrition-in-ivf-success-key-factors-to-consider/

6. IVF Clinic. How Nutrition Impacts Fertility: What Science Says. Available from: https://ivfclinic.com/how-nutrition-impacts-your-fertility-what-science-says/

7. NHS. Vomiting and morning sickness. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/vomiting-and-morning-sickness/

8. Queensland Health. Managing morning sickness. Available from: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0032/151979/antenatal-mrnsick.pdf

9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Maternal diet and breastfeeding. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/hcp/diet-micronutrients/maternal-diet.html

10. Healthline. Postpartum diet plan: Tips for healthy eating after giving birth. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/postpartum-diet

11. The Lactation Nutritionist. Sample breastfeeding meal plan & postpartum nutrition guide. Available from: https://www.thelactationnutritionist.com/post/meal-plans-while-breastfeeding-postpartum