Fertility & Prenatal Care

DHA is one of the most important omega-3s for reproductive health, pregnancy and early life development. Because it is a major structural fat in the brain, eyes and nervous system, DHA gives foundation to maternal well-being and the healthy development of a growing baby. For individuals planning to conceive, expecting, or breastfeeding, consistent DHA intake can make a meaningful difference.

Optimises chances of conceiving

Healthy fertility depends on strong, flexible and well-functioning cells. DHA is a key part of cell membranes, influencing their structure, fluidity and function — all of which are essential for reproductive health in both men and women.

For Men: Promotes Healthy Sperm Structure and Function

Sperm cell membranes are rich in DHA. This fatty acid helps keep them flexible and resilient,
which is important for:

• Healthy sperm formation
• Strong membrane integrity
• Optimal motility (swimming ability)
• Effective interaction with the egg during fertilisation

Research consistently shows that men with subfertility or infertility often have low DHA levels. Without sufficient DHA, sperm quality, quantity and movement can be significantly reduced, making adequate intake an important factor when planning for pregnancy.

For Women: Helps Support a Healthy Environment for Conception

In women, DHA reinforces reproductive tissue health by contributing to the structure and fluidity of cell membranes involved in hormone signalling and early embryo development.

This helps create conditions that support:

• Healthy fertilisation
• Early implantation
• A stable environment for pregnancy to progress

Studies also indicate that diets rich in omega-3s, particularly DHA, have been associated with improving egg quality and maintaining reproductive function into later maternal age.

DHA critical for Baby’s Development

Once pregnancy begins, DHA becomes one of the most important nutrients for both mother and baby. The developing baby needs large amounts of DHA to build the brain, central nervous system and eyes, along with the neural pathways responsible for learning, memory, attention and behaviour. It is crucial for the normal development of these systems. A mother’s DHA intake directly influences how these systems form, laying the foundation for Brain, Vision and Neurological function in early life and beyond. Infants born prematurely are considered at higher risk of incomplete neurological and visual development if DHA intake is insufficient.

Reducing Risk of Preterm Delivery and Taking Pregnancy Full Term

The third trimester is especially critical for DHA, as it’s when it accumulates rapidly in the baby’s brain and retina. Because the baby relies entirely on the mother for DHA, consistent intake throughout pregnancy is essential. DHA also supports the structure and function of cell membranes, including those in the placenta, helping it efficiently transfer nutrients and oxygen between the mother and baby. This supports foetal growth and ensures the pregnancy progresses smoothly.

Adequate DHA intake has been linked to longer pregnancies and a lower risk of preterm birth. If DHA levels are too low, it can increase inflammation, which may trigger early labour. DHA helps regulate this inflammatory response, supporting a balanced immune system that allows the pregnancy to reach full term. Additionally, proper DHA intake is associated with healthier birth weights and improved fetal growth. Babies born to mothers with sufficient DHA are more likely to be born full term, with fewer complications tied to preterm birth.

By ensuring optimal DHA availability, particularly in the third trimester, mothers help support not only their baby’s brain and eye development but also the health of the placenta and the ability to carry the pregnancy to term.

Maternal Wellbeing During Pregnancy

Pregnancy places high nutritional demands on the mother, so maintaining healthy DHA levels is important for her brain function, emotional balance and overall wellbeing. DHA also supports cell structure and fluidity throughout the body, helping the mother adapt to the physical changes of pregnancy. A balanced inflammatory response, facilitated by DHA, helps the mother’s body handle the stress and changes of pregnancy, promoting better health during each trimester.

Breastfeeding and Early Life

After birth, the baby’s brain and eyes continue to develop rapidly. Breast milk is the primary source of DHA for infants and the amount of DHA in the milk reflects the mother’s intake. Maintaining adequate omega-3 levels during breastfeeding ensures the baby’s nutritional needs are met during this crucial time of growth.

Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Health

The DHA provided during preconception, pregnancy and early childhood helps support lifelong cognitive, visual and behavioural outcomes. Omega-3s are required in higher amounts during the first few years of life, when rapid neurological and cellular changes are taking place. DHA is considered the most important omega-3 for early growth, with studies linking higher DHA levels in childhood to better learning, memory and behaviour. In one study of nearly 500 schoolchildren, higher DHA levels were associated with improved reading, memory and fewer behavioural issues. From fertility through pregnancy and into childhood, DHA plays a central role in establishing the foundations for healthy development and overall quality of life.