IS MTHFR SOMETHING TO WORRY ABOUT IN PREGNANCY?
If you've been told you have an MTHFR variant or have seen it mentioned in online pregnancy forums, you're not alone. MTHFR has become a buzzword in recent years—often linked to everything from miscarriage risk to the need for special supplements. But what does the science actually say? In this post, we break down the facts behind MTHFR, clear up common myths, and help you understand what (if anything) this means for your fertility or pregnancy. Spoiler: it’s probably not as concerning as you've been led to believe.
Q: I was told I have an MTHFR mutation. Should I be worried during pregnancy?
A: The short answer? Probably not. MTHFR variants are extremely common – nearly half the population has them. Despite some fear-based marketing online, current research shows these variants alone don’t increase the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, or complications. Another way to think about this is if nearly half the population has these variants, we’d be seeing a much much higher rate of pregnancy complications than we do. Therefore, it’s very unlikely that these variants are the cause of pregnancy complications - and there are many many people who have these variants and no pregnancy complications at all.
Q: What does MTHFR even do?
A: MTHFR is an enzyme involved in processing folate (vitamin B9). There are common variants that can reduce how efficiently your body processes folate, but that doesn't mean your body can't function well – especially with a healthy diet and proper supplementation.
Q: Should I take methylated folate if I have an MTHFR variant?
A: Most high-quality prenatal vitamins already include the active form of folate (5-MTHF), so you're likely covered. It’s not necessary to take extra supplements unless your provider recommends it based on bloodwork. Before taking any supplements, it’s best to consult with your doctor- especially if you are pregnant or planning to be.
Q: Do medical organizations treat MTHFR as a major concern?
A: No. In fact, many medical societies (ACOG, ACMG to name a few) recommend against routine MTHFR testing in pregnancy, because it rarely changes care.
Q: So what should I focus on instead?
A: Making sure you get enough folate overall (through food and supplements), managing any chronic conditions, and getting a full family history assessment from a qualified provider.
Final Thoughts:
If you've been told your MTHFR variant is a "red flag" for pregnancy problems, take a deep breath. Understanding your genetics is important, but the context matters more than the code. I can help you sort through the facts – schedule a consult if you want clarity before or during pregnancy.