Which nutrient is the most common nutritional deficiency in women and can cause infertility?

The most common nutritional deficiency in women, particularly those of childbearing age, is iron deficiency. This deficiency can significantly impact reproductive health and may lead to infertility. Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. A woman with low iron levels may experience anemia, which can disrupt normal ovulation and hormone regulation necessary for fertility.

In the context of women's health, iron is also vital during menstruation, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery, where demands for this nutrient increase. Iron deficiency can therefore lead to various health issues that extend beyond fertility, including fatigue and weakened immune function, further impacting a woman's overall health and wellbeing.

While other nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin B12 are important for overall health and can play roles in specific bodily functions, they are not as directly linked to fertility issues in women as iron is. Thus, recognizing iron deficiency as a potential cause of infertility highlights the critical need for adequate nutrition in supporting reproductive health.