If you eat plant-based and you’re trying to conceive, you’ve probably noticed that most “best fertility supplement” lists ignore your diet entirely — and some products contain animal-derived ingredients such as fish oil, gelatin capsules or oyster extract. Here’s how to shop smart: which nutrients are worth checking, what to look for on the label, and what to ask before you order.
This is educational, not medical advice. For the full buying picture, start with our guide to fertility supplements to get pregnant.
1. Start with your diet, not the supplement aisle
A well-planned vegetarian or vegan diet can support a healthy pregnancy, but a few nutrients are harder to get from plants alone. Before adding anything, ask your doctor or a registered dietitian for a blood check on the usual suspects and share your food log. A supplement should fill a gap you can name — not a hunch.
2. The nutrients plant-based TTC shoppers are usually told to check
| Nutrient | Why it comes up | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | Found naturally mainly in animal foods; vegans typically rely on fortified foods or supplements | A clearly labeled B12 source in your prenatal |
| Iron | Plant (non-heme) iron is absorbed less readily | Test first — too much iron isn’t harmless |
| Zinc | Plant foods can limit absorption | Amount per serving and the form listed |
| Iodine | Dairy and seafood are common sources | Whether your prenatal lists iodine |
| DHA (omega-3) | Fish oil is the usual source | Algae-based DHA is the plant-based option |
| Choline & vitamin D | Often low in many diets | Ask your doctor whether to test |
Folate matters for everyone: the CDC recommends 400 mcg of folic acid daily for anyone who could become pregnant. See our note on building a stack without doubling up.
3. How to read a label when you avoid animal products
- Check the capsule: gelatin is animal-derived; look for “vegetable capsule” or “HPMC” if that matters to you.
- Check the source line on omega-3, vitamin D3, and any marine or oyster ingredient — these are often animal-derived unless stated otherwise.
- Scan “other ingredients” for stearate, lactose or shellac you may want to avoid.
- Don’t assume “natural” or “herbal” means vegan — only the label or the maker can confirm it.
4. Where AGO fits — and what to confirm first
AGO formulas are designed to sit on top of a prenatal, not replace it. Because ingredient sources and capsule materials differ by product, ask the care team to send the full label for the exact product and confirm whether it fits a vegetarian or vegan diet before you order. Note that AGO Hau Bien (Sea Oyster) is oyster-based by name, so it isn’t a vegetarian option.
| Your situation | Often considered |
|---|---|
| Plant-based, TTC, regular cycles | Prenatal with B12 + AGO Mom (after label check) |
| Irregular cycles or hormonal concerns | Add AGO Eva (after label check) |
| Partner also trying | AGO Dad — see fertility supplements for couples |
5. A simple 3-step plan
- Week 1: bring your diet and current labels to your doctor; ask about B12, iron, vitamin D and iodine testing.
- Week 2: choose one prenatal that covers your gaps; send any AGO label questions to the care team.
- Day 90: review how you feel and any new lab results with your doctor before changing the plan.
Results vary and no supplement guarantees pregnancy. Get a free personalized plan.
FAQ
Do I need a special prenatal if I am vegan and trying to conceive?
Not necessarily special, but many vegans check that their prenatal includes vitamin B12 and consider algae-based DHA. Ask your doctor which nutrients to test and supplement.
Are AGO supplements vegan?
Ingredient sources and capsule materials vary by product, so we don’t make a blanket claim. Ask the care team for the full label of the exact product you are considering. AGO Hau Bien (Sea Oyster) is oyster-based and is not vegetarian.
Is fish oil the only way to get DHA?
No. Algae-based DHA is a plant-based option. Ask your doctor whether you need it and in what amount.
Should I take iron if I am vegetarian and trying to conceive?
Only if your doctor recommends it. Get your levels tested first, since extra iron is not harmless.
Can a supplement replace a balanced plant-based diet?
No. Supplements are designed to support a balanced diet, not replace it.
Do you ship to the US and Canada?
Yes. AGO ships to the US and Canada; the care team can confirm delivery times for your area.