When most people think about fertility, they focus on getting pregnant.
But in functional medicine, we take a step back and ask a different question:
What does it take to create the healthiest environment for a baby to grow—even before conception?
That’s where preconception health comes in. The months leading up to pregnancy are a powerful window for laying the foundation—not just for fertility, but for fetal development, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term health.
And it all starts with the cellular basics: nutrients, detoxification, and methylation.
What Is Methylation—And Why Does It Matter?
Methylation is one of the most important biochemical processes in the body. It affects everything from detox pathways and neurotransmitter production to DNA expression and fetal development.
In the preconception and perinatal phase, proper methylation is essential for:
- Healthy DNA synthesis and gene expression
- Formation of the neural tube (which becomes the brain and spinal cord)
- Estrogen metabolism and hormone balance
- Mood and neurotransmitter regulation
- Detoxification of environmental toxins
This is why nutrients like methylated folate, B12, B6 (P5P), B2 and folinic acid are critical before and during pregnancy. Unlike synthetic folic acid, these forms are more easily absorbed and utilized—especially in individuals with MTHFR gene variants, which can reduce the ability to convert folic acid into its active form.
The Role of Detox and Antioxidant Support
We also focus heavily on supporting detoxification and reducing oxidative stress—two areas that can directly impact egg quality, hormone health, and fetal development.
Toxins, inflammation, and free radical damage can interfere with conception and pregnancy, and many women have no idea they’re even being affected.
Our favorite nutrients for this phase include:
- NAC – a powerful antioxidant that supports glutathione production
- Magnesium – essential for hormone balance and nervous system regulation
- Zinc – important for immune modulation, DNA repair, and egg quality
- Choline – supports brain development and prevents neural tube defects
- B vitamins – especially B2, B6, B12, and folate for methylation and hormone metabolism
All of these ingredients can be found in our Complete Methylation Support formula, designed to help women build nutrient reserves, support detox pathways, and prepare their bodies for pregnancy—whether that’s now or in the coming year.
The Cord Blood Connection
One thing I always remind patients: Cord blood reflects what your baby was exposed to in the womb. That includes nutrient status, inflammation, and environmental toxins.
So the choices you make in the 3–6 months before conception aren’t just about getting pregnant—they’re about shaping the environment your child will grow and develop in from day one.
Functional Fertility Support Is Not Just for Infertility
Even if you don’t struggle with fertility challenges, a root-cause approach helps set the stage for a healthier pregnancy, smoother postpartum recovery, and stronger foundations for your child’s health.
This isn’t about shame or fear—it’s about empowerment. You deserve to understand how your body works and how to support it with the right tools at the right time.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re preparing for pregnancy and ready to move beyond information into action, our team is here to help.
Caroline Dixon, FNP-C, offers comprehensive, functional medicine support for preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum care. With advanced training in hormone balance, nutrient optimization, and metabolic health, she can help you:
✔️ Create a personalized nutrition and supplement plan
✔️ Order targeted lab work to uncover hidden imbalances
✔️ Support detox pathways and methylation before conception
✔️ Feel confident and prepared for a healthy pregnancy journey
If you’d prefer additional lifestyle guidance, Alexis Maple, our certified health coach and nutrition consultant, offers focused coaching to help you build sustainable routines and optimize your home environment.
Because knowledge is powerful—but implementation is where change happens.
Whether you’re looking for in-depth clinical care or step-by-step support, our practice offers personalized guidance grounded in evidence-based strategies.
To get started, visit our services page or call the clinic.
Your fertility journey deserves care that’s thoughtful, comprehensive, and truly individualized.
We’re here for you.
