The Benefits of DHA and DHEA for Fertility: What You Need to Know

DHA and DHEA are two nutrients that are frequently confused because their names look similar. They are in fact completely different in their nature, function and how they are used in the context of fertility. This guide explains what each one is, what the research says about their roles in reproductive health, and how to approach supplementation for each.

What is DHA?

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid. It is one of the most important structural fats in the human body, forming a key component of cell membranes throughout the brain, eyes and reproductive system. Unlike some nutrients, DHA cannot be produced by the body in adequate amounts and must be obtained through diet or supplementation.

The richest dietary sources of DHA are oily fish including salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines, as well as algae (which is the original source of DHA in the marine food chain and is the basis of vegan omega-3 supplements). The NHS recommendation is two portions of oily fish per week, but surveys consistently show that average intake in the UK falls well below this.

DHA and fertility

DHA plays several roles that are directly relevant to reproductive health:

• Egg membrane integrity: DHA is a key structural component of egg cell membranes. Adequate DHA may support the flexibility and integrity of these membranes, which is important for fertilisation and early embryo development.
• Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation may impair ovulatory function and implantation. DHA has well-established anti-inflammatory properties that may support the reproductive environment.
• Sperm health: DHA is the predominant fatty acid in sperm cell membranes and is important for sperm motility and the structural changes sperm undergo during fertilisation. Research suggests omega-3 supplementation may support sperm count, motility and morphology.
• Hormonal balance: Omega-3 fatty acids may support hormonal regulation, including in women with PCOS (PMOS) where inflammation and hormonal disruption are common.

Choosing a DHA supplement for fertility

When choosing a DHA supplement, two factors are worth paying particular attention to:

Purity: Certain fish accumulate mercury and other contaminants. A high-quality omega-3 supplement should be molecularly distilled to remove all known contaminants. It should also not contain vitamin A, which is not recommended in higher doses during pregnancy.

Form: Most omega-3 supplements use a triglyceride form of DHA and EPA. Some newer formulations use a phospholipid form, derived from sources such as herring caviar oil or krill oil, which research suggests may offer enhanced absorption and tissue delivery.

Zita West Vital DHA

An ultra-pure, molecularly distilled omega-3 providing DHA and EPA. Free from known contaminants including mercury. Does not contain vitamin A, making it suitable for preconception, pregnancy and postnatal use.

Shop Vital DHA

Zita West Ultra Omega

A phospholipid omega-3 supplement using herring caviar oil. May offer enhanced absorption compared to standard triglyceride fish oil.

Shop Ultra Omega

What is DHEA?

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands. It is a precursor hormone, meaning the body converts it into other hormones including testosterone and oestrogen. DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and decline with age, which has led to interest in supplementation for various health outcomes including fertility.

It is important to be clear that DHEA is a hormone, not a nutritional supplement. This is a fundamental distinction from DHA, which is a dietary fatty acid. Because DHEA directly influences hormonal balance, its use in fertility contexts requires medical supervision.

DHEA and fertility

DHEA has attracted particular interest in the context of diminished ovarian reserve and poor response to IVF stimulation. Some fertility clinics prescribe DHEA as a pretreatment for women with low AMH or poor egg response, based on research suggesting it may support ovarian function and improve response to gonadotropin stimulation.¹

However, the evidence remains mixed and DHEA is not universally recommended. A 2015 Cochrane review found that pre-treatment with DHEA was associated with higher rates of live birth or ongoing pregnancy compared to placebo, but when trials at high risk of bias were removed the effect was reduced and no longer statistically significant, highlighting the need for further high-quality research.² Current guidance varies between fertility clinics and practitioners.

Because DHEA is a hormone precursor it carries potential risks if used without appropriate medical oversight, including hormonal imbalance, acne and unwanted androgenic effects. It should not be self-prescribed and any use should be discussed with and supervised by a fertility specialist.

DHA vs DHEA: a summary

FAQs: DHA and DHEA for fertility

Is DHA the same as DHEA?

No. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in oily fish and available as a dietary supplement. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that acts as a precursor to testosterone and oestrogen. They are completely different substances with different roles and different considerations for use.

Should I take DHA when trying to conceive?

Yes. DHA supports egg membrane integrity, reduces inflammation and supports sperm health, making it relevant for both partners during the preconception period. Most people do not consume enough oily fish to meet optimal DHA levels, which is why a supplement is commonly recommended. Zita West Vital DHA and Ultra Omega are both formulated for fertility use.

Should I take DHEA for fertility?

DHEA is most commonly considered for women with diminished ovarian reserve or poor IVF response, and should only be used under the supervision of a fertility specialist. It is not appropriate for self-prescription given its hormonal effects. If you are interested in DHEA, discuss it with your fertility clinic before starting.

What is the difference between Vital DHA and Ultra Omega?

Both are omega-3 supplements providing DHA and EPA, but they differ in form. Vital DHA uses a triglyceride form, which is the most widely used form in omega-3 supplements. Ultra Omega uses a phospholipid form derived from herring caviar oil, which research suggests may offer enhanced absorption and a greater anti-inflammatory effect. For women with known inflammatory conditions or those preparing for IVF, Ultra Omega may be worth considering. If you are unsure which is right for you, book a free 1:1 fertility product consultation with our team.

Can men take DHA for fertility?

Yes. DHA is the predominant fatty acid in sperm cell membranes and is important for sperm motility and function. Both Vital DHA and Ultra Omega are suitable for men as well as women.

References

1. Wiser A et al. (2010). Addition of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for poor-responder patients before and during IVF treatment improves the pregnancy rate: a randomized prospective study. Human Reproduction. PubMed
2. Nagels HE et al. (2015). Androgens (dehydroepiandrosterone or testosterone) for women undergoing IVF/ICSI. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. PubMed

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly for hormonal supplements such as DHEA.