Short answer: Melatonin is the body's own sleep hormone and also an antioxidant, and it has been studied as a supplement in IVF. Limited evidence suggests that melatonin may increase the number of mature eggs and good-quality embryos, and possibly the clinical pregnancy rate. However, the evidence is of low quality, and its effect on the number of live births is unclear. Always consult your fertility clinic.
What is melatonin and how is it linked to egg quality?
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the body, primarily in the pineal gland, that helps regulate the circadian rhythm and sleep. In addition to its role in sleep, melatonin also acts as an antioxidant, which means it is a substance that can counteract oxidative stress in cells. Researchers have taken an interest in this because the egg follicle contains melatonin, and they have wanted to investigate whether the substance can protect the egg during maturation. However, it is important to emphasize that this is an area where knowledge is still being developed.
What does research say about melatonin in IVF?
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized studies from 2020 compiled ten studies and found that melatonin supplements were associated with more eggs retrieved, more mature eggs and more good-quality embryos, as well as a slightly higher clinical pregnancy rate. However, the same analysis could not show any certain effect on the proportion of live births, and the authors assessed that the evidence was consistently of low quality. The results should therefore be interpreted with caution.
A broader Cochrane review on antioxidants in female involuntary infertility, which covered a number of substances including melatonin, concluded that the scientific evidence is too uncertain to determine whether antioxidants improve the chances of a live birth. Overall, the available evidence therefore suggests possible positive effects on egg maturation, but without providing any definitive answer about what matters most to most people: live birth.
How much, when and what is still uncertain?
The studies that have been conducted have used different doses and schedules, often during the weeks before and during IVF stimulation, making it difficult to identify a single "right" dose. Because melatonin affects sleep and the circadian rhythm, and can interact with other medications, this is not something you should start on your own before or during treatment. In Sweden, melatonin is also a medication, not a common dietary supplement, making it extra important to go through healthcare.
What can you do together with your clinic?
Ask the clinic which outcome a proposed treatment is expected to improve: the number of eggs, pregnancy, or live birth. Also go over possible side effects, other medications, and how the use will be monitored. Do not start using melatonin for fertility purposes on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can melatonin improve my eggs if I take it on my own?
There is no certain evidence to support this, and melatonin is a medication in Sweden that affects sleep and the circadian rhythm. Therefore, always discuss the matter with healthcare before you consider it, especially during ongoing fertility treatment.
Does more mature eggs mean I will have a child?
Not necessarily. The studies suggest more mature eggs and good-quality embryos, but the effect on the number of live births is still unclear according to the limited evidence.
Is melatonin dangerous to take with IVF?
In the studies, no clear signs of increased side effects have been seen, but the evidence is limited. Your clinic can best assess what is appropriate for you.
This text is general information and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor or fertility clinic before starting supplements or medications, especially in connection with fertility treatment.