Gluten-free diet - remedy for infertility or dangerous trend?

Angelika Krawczyk1, Anna Kretek2, Dagmara Pluta3

  • 1Students Scientific Association of Gynecological Endocrinology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland. angelika.krawczyk328@gmail.com.

Ginekologia Polska
|February 14, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Celiac disease (CD) is linked to infertility, with a gluten-free diet (GFD) potentially improving fertility and pregnancy outcomes in diagnosed women. Unnecessary GFD may pose risks, highlighting the importance of accurate information for patients.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Endocrinology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Celiac disease (CD) association with infertility is debated, yet women with unexplained infertility show a higher CD risk.
  • Gluten-free diet (GFD) is the primary CD treatment, with potential implications for reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present scientific evidence on the relationship between gluten elimination and fertility.
  • To clarify the impact of CD and GFD on women's reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing studies on celiac disease, gluten-free diets, and reproductive health.
  • Analysis of research concerning infertility, pregnancy outcomes, and hormonal markers in relation to CD.

Main Results:

  • Women with unexplained infertility have a threefold higher risk of CD.
  • GFD in diagnosed CD patients correlates with improved fertility and positive pregnancy outcomes, including assisted reproductive technology (ART) success.
  • CD and malnutrition can cause infertility and pregnancy complications; GFD in non-CD individuals may risk malnutrition.

Conclusions:

  • GFD is crucial for improving fertility and pregnancy outcomes in women diagnosed with celiac disease.
  • Accurate, evidence-based information is vital for patients regarding CD, GFD, and reproductive health concerns.
  • Non-celiac wheat sensitivity also impacts reproductive health, increasing menstrual disorder risks.

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