Female Fertility
The female reproductive cycle
The average menstrual cycle is around 28 days, but anywhere from 24 to 35 days is considered normal. The cycle has two main phases:
- Follicular phase (Day 1 to ovulation): the body recruits follicles, one of which becomes dominant and releases a mature egg at ovulation.
- Luteal phase (ovulation to Day 28): the uterine lining thickens to prepare for a potential embryo. If conception doesn't happen, the lining sheds and the cycle restarts.
Ovulation: a 24-hour window
Ovulation typically happens around Day 14, though it varies. The egg survives for around 24 hours after release. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days, which means the fertile window is roughly five days before ovulation through one day after.
Tracking ovulation — via cycle calendars, ovulation predictor kits (OPKs), basal body temperature, or cervical mucus — significantly improves the odds of conception by timing intercourse during the fertile window.
What affects egg quality
Egg quality refers to the chromosomal and cellular health of egg cells. It's influenced by:
- Age (the biggest single factor)
- Mitochondrial energy — egg cells need huge amounts of cellular energy to mature
- Oxidative stress — reactive oxygen species damage cells
- Nutritional status — adequate folate, B12, vitamin D, antioxidants
- Hormonal balance — supported by B6 (regulation of hormonal activity) and selenium (thyroid function)
Common fertility concerns
Many women experience cycle irregularities, hormonal imbalances (PCOS, thyroid issues), or "unexplained" delays in conception. Most of these benefit from a combination of clinical guidance and optimised nutrition during the preconception window.
If you've been trying for 12+ months (or 6+ if you're over 35), it's worth speaking to your GP about a referral for fertility investigations.
How BioMirco supports female fertility
Fertility Advance is our high-strength formula for women 35+ or those who have been trying 12+ months. 300mg CoQ10, 800µg active 5-MTHF folate, two B12 forms, 26 nutrients in total.
Fertility Focus is built for early TTC and early pregnancy — same active forms, slightly lower doses, formulated to continue through the first trimester.