Gut Health & Fertility: Why Your Bloating Could Be the Missing Link to Conception

bloated while trying to conceive? Here’s why that could be more important than you think.

Many people trying to get pregnant laser-focus on diet, supplements, and hormone levels. But a piece of the puzzle that’s often overlooked—yet completely foundational—is gut health.

In a recent episode of the podcast, we dove deep into how your gut, nervous system, and fertility are all interconnected. Here are the major takeaways you need to know:

1. Absorption > Intake

You can eat a pristine fertility diet—rich in protein, leafy greens, omega-3s—but if your gut is imbalanced or inflamed, your body may not actually absorb those nutrients. That means even with the best intentions, your reproductive system could still be undernourished.

2. The Vagus Nerve: The Gut-Brain-Fertility Axis

Practices like humming, box breathing, and vagal toning may seem unrelated to fertility, but they play a critical role in calming the nervous system. A calm nervous system enhances digestion, absorption, and nutrient delivery—especially iron, B12, and other fertility-critical nutrients.

3. Supplements vs. Food? You Need Both.

While food should always be the foundation, therapeutic doses of nutrients like CoQ10 or vitamin D can’t realistically be obtained through food alone. Imagine eating pounds of organ meats just to hit your CoQ10 target—that’s where supplementation comes in.

4. Low Stomach Acid = Low Nutrient Uptake

Are you supplementing but not seeing results in your labs? You might have low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), which affects absorption of iron and B12. Fixing digestive function isn’t just about avoiding heartburn—it’s about fueling your entire reproductive system.

5. The Vaginal Microbiome Is Part of the Story

We now know that the bacteria in your vaginal canal shift throughout your cycle and can influence everything from PMS to bleeding patterns—and even IVF outcomes. That’s why targeted probiotic vaginal suppositories are emerging as a powerful tool for restoring balance.

🔁 It’s All Connected

Whether you’re trying naturally, preparing for IVF, or somewhere in between—this isn’t just a gut health conversation. It’s a fertility strategy.

To go deeper into this work, check out the latest episode of the Her Fertility Podcast where I dive into this deeper with Dr. Kalea Wattles, and expert in holistic health for infertility. She integrates gut healing, hormone balancing, and supplement strategy—all grounded in real science and tailored to real people.

👉 Listen to the full episode here
👉 Join the conversation here

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Learn more at www.herfertility.support