Getting Pregnant Naturally (8 page)

The oil from the seeds of the evening primrose plant contains gamma-linolenic acid, an oil much like the essential fatty acid omega-6. A deficiency in the essential
fatty acids can contribute to infertility by causing a thickening of the cervical mucus and the formation of mucus hostile to sperm. Evening primrose oil—as well as fish oils—contains fatty acids that can help reverse infertility caused by a mucus problem.

The gamma-linolenic acid found in evening primrose oil is also a precursor to the formation of certain prostaglandins, which help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, maintain salt-water balance, and support the immune system. While side effects from evening primrose oil are quite rare, you can avoid nausea by taking the supplements with food.

Arginine is considered a “nonessential” amino acid, but it may be essential to the formation of healthy sperm. This makes sense when you consider that arginine is required for the replication of cells, including the formation of sperm cells.

Studies have shown that taking 4 grams of powdered arginine dissolved in water can significantly boost sperm counts and sperm motility in some men, especially those with only moderately depressed sperm counts. One study of 178 men found significant improvement in sperm count and sperm motility in almost three out of four men included in the study who took 4 grams of arginine a day.

It may take several months for results, so try to be patient. You should take amino acids on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. They can be purchased as
capsules, tablets, and powders, either alone, as protein mixtures, or in multivitamin formulas.