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LHCGR and Fertility: What Your rs13405728 Genotype May Mean

Infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after a year of trying, is complex and can result from many factors. One contributor is genetics. The LHCGR gene encodes the receptor for luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). These hormones are central to ovulation, egg maturation, and early pregnancy maintenance. Variations at the rs13405728 position in LHCGR can influence receptor function and downstream hormone signaling, which in turn may affect ovulatory patterns and metabolic processes linked to fertility.

How LHCGR, LH, and hCG Work

  • LH triggers ovulation and supports follicle development and steroid hormone production.
  • hCG keeps the early pregnancy viable by supporting the corpus luteum until the placenta takes over.
  • The LHCGR protein on ovarian cells receives LH and hCG signals. Variants that change receptor behavior can alter how strongly or weakly cells respond.
  • Disrupted signaling can contribute to irregular ovulation, impaired egg maturation, and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Why Metabolic Health Matters

Some LHCGR variants, including the G allele at rs13405728, are associated with higher insulin levels in women with PCOS. Elevated insulin and insulin resistance can worsen hormonal imbalance by increasing ovarian androgen production and disrupting menstrual cycles. Improving metabolic health often helps restore hormonal balance and ovulatory function.

Genetic Interpretation

2 effect alleles (GG) — increased effect

You carry two copies of the G effect allele at rs13405728. This genotype is associated with altered LHCGR receptor activity and has been linked to higher insulin levels in women with PCOS. Potential implications include increased risk of insulin resistance, metabolic disturbances, irregular ovulation, and challenges with egg maturation.

Practical considerations

  • Focus on insulin-sensitivity strategies: low-glycemic carbohydrates, regular physical activity, and weight management if needed.
  • Work with your healthcare team to monitor fasting glucose, HbA1c, and lipid profile as appropriate.
  • Consider referral to a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist if you experience irregular cycles or difficulty conceiving.
  • Discuss medications such as insulin-sensitizing agents with your provider when clinically indicated.
1 effect allele (AG) — moderate effect

You carry one copy of the G effect allele at rs13405728. This genotype may be associated with somewhat increased insulin levels in the context of PCOS and could modestly influence how your ovaries respond to LH and hCG. Effects on fertility are less pronounced than with two copies, but metabolic and hormonal monitoring can still be useful.

Practical considerations

  • Adopt a balanced diet emphasizing whole vegetables, fiber, lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates.
  • Engage in regular moderate exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, or strength training to support insulin sensitivity.
  • Track menstrual cycle patterns and discuss any irregularities with your provider.
  • Consider periodic metabolic screening (fasting glucose, lipids) based on personal and family history.
0 effect alleles (AA) — typical function

You carry two copies of the A non-effect allele at rs13405728. This is the common genotype and is associated with typical LHCGR receptor function, supporting normal LH and hCG signaling. Your genotype at this locus is not expected to increase genetic risk for the insulin-related PCOS effect seen with the G allele.

Practical considerations

  • Continue general reproductive and metabolic health practices to optimize fertility.
  • Maintain regular checkups and discuss any fertility concerns promptly with your healthcare provider.

Dietary Recommendations

  • Prioritize whole, minimally processed foods: vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and healthy oils.
  • Favor low-glycemic carbohydrates to reduce insulin spikes: nonstarchy vegetables, intact whole grains, and moderate fruit intake.
  • Include a source of protein at each meal to support stable blood sugar and hormone production.
  • Emphasize anti-inflammatory foods: fatty fish, olive oil, leafy greens, berries, and nuts.
  • Limit added sugars, refined grains, and highly processed foods that promote insulin resistance and inflammation.

Supplement and Nutrient Considerations

  • Work with a clinician before starting supplements.
  • Commonly discussed nutrients for reproductive and metabolic support include vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, myo-inositol, and a balanced prenatal vitamin if trying to conceive.
  • Myoinositol has been used to support insulin sensitivity and ovulatory function in some women with PCOS. Discuss dosing and appropriateness with your provider.
  • Ensure adequate iron status and correct deficiencies under medical guidance, especially if menstruation is heavy or if pregnancy is planned.

Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Exercise regularly: aim for a mix of aerobic activity and strength training, 3 to 5 times per week.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: modest weight loss can improve ovulation and insulin sensitivity in those with overweight or obesity.
  • Sleep: prioritize consistent, restorative sleep to support hormonal balance.
  • Stress management: use relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or counseling to reduce cortisol and support reproductive health.
  • Minimize endocrine disruptors: reduce exposure to certain plastics, unregulated personal care chemicals, and persistent environmental toxins when possible.

Monitoring and Medical Follow-up

  • Track cycle length, ovulation signs, and any symptoms such as heavy bleeding, missed periods, or excessive hair growth.
  • Discuss metabolic screening and fertility evaluation with your primary care provider or a reproductive endocrinologist if you have irregular cycles, infertility, or risk factors for insulin resistance.
  • If pregnancy is a goal and cycles are irregular, early referral to fertility services can help identify targeted treatments or interventions.

Limitations and Next Steps

A single genetic variant is only one piece of the fertility puzzle. Many genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors interact to determine reproductive outcomes. If you have concerns about fertility, PCOS, or metabolic health, consider comprehensive evaluation that may include hormone testing, ultrasound, metabolic labs, and personalized treatment planning.

Important: PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational and intended to explain how a genetic variant may relate to reproductive health. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medical, dietary, supplement, or lifestyle changes based on genetic results.