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FSHB and Ovulation: What Your Genotype Means for Fertility and Twin Chances

Pregnancy begins with ovulation, when an egg is released for potential fertilization. The FSHB gene helps make a part of follicle-stimulating hormone, commonly called FSH. FSH stimulates ovarian follicles to mature and promotes the release of eggs. Variations in the FSHB gene can influence FSH levels and how the ovaries respond, which can affect menstrual regularity, fertility, and the likelihood of releasing more than one egg in a cycle—an important factor in conceiving fraternal twins.

How FSHB variants can affect reproductive health

  • Lower FSH production can reduce stimulation of multiple follicles, lowering the chance of releasing more than one egg in a cycle and reducing odds of fraternal twins.
  • Some FSHB variants are associated with changes in menstrual regularity and a modestly increased risk of polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS.
  • Higher FSH activity supports normal ovulatory patterns and can increase the likelihood of multiple follicles maturing in the same cycle.

Practical steps to support ovulatory function and reproductive health

Genotype is one factor among many that influence fertility. Lifestyle, environmental exposures, overall health, and age also play major roles. The following diet, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations are intended to support hormone balance and reproductive wellness. They are educational and not medical advice.

Diet and nutrition

  • Eat a balanced, nutrient-dense diet with whole foods: plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
  • Prioritize healthy fats, including omega-3 sources such as fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, chia, and flaxseed to support hormone production and reduce inflammation.
  • Include antioxidant-rich foods: berries, dark leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and green tea to help protect eggs from oxidative stress.
  • Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals important for fertility: folate, B vitamins, iron, zinc, selenium, magnesium, and vitamin C.
  • Maintain stable blood sugar with balanced meals to support hormonal rhythm—pair carbohydrates with protein and healthy fats.

Supplements to consider

  • Vitamin D: supports reproductive hormone signaling. Check levels with your healthcare provider and supplement if deficient.
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): may support mitochondrial function and egg quality, particularly useful for individuals trying to conceive.
  • Inositol (particularly myo-inositol): shown to help insulin sensitivity and menstrual regularity in some people with PCOS and can support ovulation.
  • Prenatal multivitamin with folate if trying to conceive or during pregnancy.

Lifestyle and monitoring

  • Regular moderate exercise supports metabolic and hormonal health. Avoid extreme calorie restriction or excessive high-intensity training that can disrupt cycles.
  • Track menstrual cycles using apps, basal body temperature, ovulation predictor kits, or cervical mucus monitoring to better understand ovulation timing and patterns.
  • Minimize exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as certain plastics, BPA, phthalates, and some pesticides—use glass or stainless steel for food storage, choose fresh foods when possible, and avoid unnecessary personal care products with unknown additives.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Both underweight and overweight can impair ovulation and fertility.
  • Limit smoking and excessive alcohol, as both can negatively affect ovarian function and fertility outcomes.
  • Schedule regular checkups with your healthcare provider and consider reproductive endocrinology referral if you have irregular cycles, difficulty conceiving, or symptoms suggestive of PCOS.

Genetic interpretation for rs11031006

2 effect alleles (AA)

You have the AA genotype at rs11031006, which means you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with lower odds of having fraternal twins due to reduced FSH production. Lower FSH can decrease stimulation for multiple follicles, making it less likely that more than one egg is released during ovulation.

The A allele may also be associated with a higher risk of PCOS or menstrual irregularity for some people, which can affect fertility. Given these tendencies, lifestyle and nutritional strategies that support hormone balance and egg health are useful. Consider a nutrient-rich diet with omega-3s and antioxidants, ensure adequate vitamin D, and discuss CoQ10 and inositol with your provider if fertility or PCOS symptoms are a concern. Regular cycle tracking and medical monitoring can help optimize ovulatory function and identify any treatable issues early.

1 effect allele (AG)

You have the AG genotype at rs11031006, which means you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with likely lower odds of fraternal twins compared to those with two G alleles. The A allele is linked to reduced FSH production, which can lower stimulation for releasing multiple eggs in one cycle.

This variant may also show a genetic association with increased PCOS risk or menstrual irregularity for some individuals. To support reproductive health, focus on a balanced, nutrient-dense diet with omega-3s, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. Consider discussing vitamin D testing and supplementation, and whether CoQ10 or inositol might benefit you. Regular cycle tracking, moderate exercise, and minimizing endocrine disruptors can help maintain optimal hormone balance and ovulatory function.

0 effect alleles (GG)

You have the GG genotype at rs11031006, which means you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This genotype is associated with typical or higher FSH production compared to those with the A allele. Higher FSH activity promotes follicle development and may increase the likelihood of releasing more than one egg in a cycle, which can raise the odds of conceiving fraternal twins.

With the GG genotype, ovulatory patterns are more likely to be typical and are not associated with the reduced FSH levels or increased PCOS risk reported for the A allele. Maintaining the same supportive habits—balanced nutrition, antioxidant intake, appropriate supplementation when indicated, cycle tracking, and medical checkups—can help sustain reproductive health and overall wellbeing.

When to talk with a healthcare provider

  • If you have irregular menstrual cycles, persistent difficulty conceiving, or symptoms suggestive of PCOS such as irregular periods, excess hair growth, or significant weight changes.
  • Before starting supplements like high-dose vitamin D, CoQ10, or inositol—especially if you are taking other medications or have chronic health conditions.
  • If you want personalized preconception planning, fertility evaluation, or guidance on managing hormonal health.

PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational and describes genetic predispositions only. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about medical care, supplements, or fertility planning.