Welcome back to my Autoimmune Fertility series!

This week’s topic is MTHFR gene testing and recurrent miscarriage. Although MTHFR is more about genetics than an autoimmune process, it is important to remember that genes in our bodies can be switched on or switched off under specific conditions. For example, it is possible for some individuals to carry a genetic variation that with optimal self-care never causes any symptoms or problems. This might be a result of having a particular diet, practice of hot yoga or consistent use of supplements to support nutrition. Let’s talk more about MTHFR and if testing for it is right for you.

 

Should you consider MTHFR gene testing?

Are you a woman experiencing recurrent miscarriages, infertility or blood clotting problems? Have you had more than 2 pregnancy losses or 2 failed IVF cycles after the age of 35? If so, I do recommend MTHFR genetic testing. This is a worthwhile topic to discuss with your medical doctor, genetic counselor, and integrative medicine professionals such as acupuncturists and naturopaths. *It is always best to have professional guidance with respect to choosing, obtaining and interpreting genetic testing. *

 

What does MTHFR mean?

MTHFR is the abbreviation for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. In medical journals, MTHFR can refer to the MTHFR enzyme in your body or the MTHFR gene in your body. We are finding increasing numbers of these types of genes. Newer research is pointing toward higher percentages of the general population with genetic defects of the MTHFR gene also.

 

“The frequency of the homozygous mutant MTHFR 677TT genotype is reported to be

10% worldwide, ranging from 4% to 18% in the United States,

20% in northern China

to as high as 32% in Mexico.” ¹

 

Important jobs your MTHFR gene does

Processes folate

Processes Vitamin B12

Produces key brain chemistry components,

such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine

Regulates gene expression

Processes heavy metals

Is active in hormone regulation

Participates in immune function

Regulates homocysteine production

 

Technical terms you will see with MTHFR gene testing, information & results

We inherit genes from both of our parents: one from our mother and one from our father. It is possible to inherit only one defective gene which is called a heterozygous mutation. For some individuals, the function with a single normal MTHFR gene can be enough to avoid physical issues. In contrast, there are usually bigger health challenges in the case of inheriting two defective genes which is a homozygous mutation. Two defective genes cause far more problems than one.

 

With respect to genetic issues, patterns within your family can be clues to investigate when considering genetic and fertility testing.

Do consider the histories of your parents and siblings as well as your own when contemplating MTHFR gene testing.

Below you will see a partial list of issues known to associate with MTHFR gene

Autism	Miscarriages	Schizophrenia	Spina bifida	Migraines with aura	Epilepsy
Addictions	Pulmonary embolisms	Fibromyalgia	Bipolar disorders	Blood clots	Drug Toxicities: methotrexate, anti-epileptics
Down syndrome	Depression	Pre-eclampsia	Idiopathic male fertility	High homocysteine	Placental abruption

 

My next blog will also have additional MTHFR information. In it I will share with you the most common gene mutations seen and currently tested as well as supplements and dietary factors which can help.

Thank you for reading!

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Karen Reynolds, LAc, RN Acupuncture for Optimal Health 

All content here is written personally by me in with the goal that it is be helpful to you. As long as you include the link for this blog entry to credit me as the author, it is fine to repost or share if you wish.

For scheduling information and appointment availability, do please visit my website at: KReynoldsAcupuncture.com.

Be well!

~Karen Reynolds, RN, MS, LAc

¹ Wilson, C.P., McNulty, H., Ward, M., Strain, J.J., Trouton, T.G., Hoeft, B.A., Weber, P., Roos, F.F., Horigan, G., McAnena, L., Scott, J.M. (2013). Blood Pressure in Treated Hypertensive Individuals With the MTHFR 677TT Genotype Is Responsive to Intervention With Riboflavin. Hypertension, 61, 1302-1308. doi: 10.1161/HYPERTENSIONHA.111.01047/-/DCI

 

Statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. All information on this site is provided as education and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. No information on this site is intended to replace or delay the use of any conventional medical treatment.