Pregnancy | IL17A (rs763780)

How IL17A and rs763780 can influence pregnancy

Pregnancy requires a carefully balanced immune response so the body can accept and support the embryo while still protecting both mother and fetus from infection. The IL17A gene makes interleukin 17A, a signaling molecule that promotes inflammation. Certain variations in IL17A, including the rs763780 change, can affect how much IL-17A is produced and how strongly inflammation is triggered at the maternal-fetal interface.

Higher IL-17A activity has been associated with increased risk of immune-related pregnancy complications, including recurrent miscarriage and conditions linked to excessive inflammation. Understanding your rs763780 genotype can help you and your healthcare team consider lifestyle, nutrition, and monitoring strategies that support immune balance during conception and pregnancy.

Personalized genetic interpretation

CC genotype — two effect alleles

You have two copies of the C allele at rs763780. This genotype is associated with increased relative risk of recurrent miscarriage in published studies. It is thought to raise IL-17A levels and promote a stronger pro-inflammatory response at the maternal-fetal interface, which can make immune tolerance and embryo implantation more difficult.

Actionable considerations

Follow an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern emphasizing whole fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fatty fish rich in omega-3s. Limit ultra-processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats.
Check vitamin D status (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D) and correct deficiency under medical guidance. Aim for levels your provider recommends for pregnancy planning.
Assess zinc status if there are signs of deficiency or dietary risk factors. Work with your provider before supplementing.
Consider a daily probiotic containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains to support gut barrier function and immune regulation.
Engage in regular moderate exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, or prenatal-appropriate activities to support circulation and immune health.
Use evidence-based stress reduction techniques daily, such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or gentle yoga.
Prioritize consistent, restorative sleep and reduce exposure to environmental toxins (smoking, heavy alcohol use, unregulated chemicals).
Discuss with your healthcare provider whether additional monitoring or referrals (for reproductive immunology) are appropriate based on your history.

CT genotype — one effect allele

You carry one C allele and one T allele at rs763780. This CT genotype is associated with a likely increased relative risk of recurrent miscarriage compared with the TT genotype. The single C allele can increase IL-17A activity and contribute to a pro-inflammatory environment at the maternal-fetal interface.

Actionable considerations

Adopt an anti-inflammatory eating pattern with a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, fiber-rich whole grains, legumes, nuts, and lean protein. Reduce processed and high-sugar foods.
Measure and optimize vitamin D status with your provider. Appropriate vitamin D supports immune regulation.
Ensure adequate zinc intake through diet or targeted supplementation if recommended by your clinician.
Include a probiotic with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains to support gut microbiome balance and mucosal immunity.
Maintain regular moderate exercise and daily stress-management practices to lower chronic inflammation.
Focus on sleep quality and minimize exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants.
If you have a history of pregnancy loss or other reproductive concerns, discuss possible additional monitoring or specialist referral with your healthcare provider.

TT genotype — zero effect alleles

You have two copies of the T allele at rs763780. This TT genotype is associated with typical IL-17A inflammatory activity, meaning you are not genetically predisposed by this variant to elevated IL-17A levels. Your risk for IL-17A–related pregnancy complications is considered standard for this genetic locus.

Actionable considerations

Although you do not carry the effect allele, supporting overall immune balance remains important for pregnancy health. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods and fiber.
Check vitamin D and zinc status as part of routine preconception and prenatal care and correct deficiencies if identified.
Use probiotics containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains if recommended for gut or vaginal microbiome support.
Engage in regular moderate exercise, maintain healthy sleep habits, and practice stress reduction to support immune homeostasis.
Minimize exposure to known reproductive toxins and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider during preconception planning.

Diet and supplement guidance to support immune balance

A nutrition plan focused on lowering chronic inflammation can help create a favorable environment for implantation and pregnancy, regardless of genotype. Key elements include:

Colorful plant foods: Aim for a variety of vegetables, fruits, and legumes to provide antioxidants and fiber that support immune regulation.
Healthy fats: Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and flaxseed to help temper inflammation.
Whole grains and fiber: Fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome and short-chain fatty acid production, which influence immune responses.
Limit processed foods: Reduce ultra-processed items, added sugars, and excessive refined carbohydrates that can promote inflammation.
Vitamin D: Have serum 25(OH)D tested and correct insufficiency under clinical supervision. Optimal vitamin D supports immune function during pregnancy planning and gestation.
Zinc: Ensure adequate dietary zinc from sources like legumes, nuts, seeds, and lean meats; supplement only if advised by your clinician.
Probiotics: Consider products containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains to support gut and vaginal microbiomes. Discuss choice and dose with your healthcare provider.

Lifestyle habits to reduce inflammation

Exercise: Regular moderate activity, 150 minutes per week as tolerated, supports immune balance, cardiovascular health, and weight management.
Stress management: Daily practices such as mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, and gentle yoga reduce cortisol-driven inflammation.
Sleep: Aim for consistent, high-quality sleep each night. Poor sleep increases systemic inflammation and impairs recovery.
Toxin reduction: Avoid tobacco, limit alcohol, and reduce exposure to environmental chemicals when possible. Use safe household products and follow food safety guidance in pregnancy planning.
Medical monitoring: If you have a history of pregnancy loss or known autoimmune disease, work with your clinician to determine whether targeted testing or specialist referral is appropriate.

Recommended tests to discuss with your provider

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D to assess vitamin D status.
Standard nutritional labs if dietary concerns exist, including zinc when deficiency is suspected.
Inflammation markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein if clinically indicated.
Reproductive immunology assessment or referral if you have recurrent pregnancy loss or other unexplained reproductive complications.

Important limitations and next steps

This report explains how the IL17A rs763780 genotype may influence inflammation and pregnancy risk. Genetics is one piece of a complex picture. Lifestyle, environment, other genes, underlying medical conditions, and reproductive history all play important roles. Use these results to guide conversations with your healthcare provider and to inform lifestyle and nutrition strategies tailored to your needs.

PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any supplement, medication, or health regimen, and before making decisions about pregnancy care or testing.