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MTHFR and Pregnancy: What Your rs17367504 Genotype Means for Blood Pressure and Placental Health

Pregnancy requires careful coordination of cell division, DNA synthesis, and vascular function to support the growing fetus. The MTHFR gene encodes an enzyme that helps convert folate into its active forms, which are critical for methylation reactions, DNA synthesis, and healthy blood vessel function. Variations at the rs17367504 position are linked to differences in blood pressure regulation and risk of hypertensive pregnancy conditions such as preeclampsia.

How MTHFR and Folate Metabolism Affect Pregnancy

  • Folate is vital for DNA synthesis and cell division in the developing placenta and fetus.
  • Active folate and related B vitamins support methylation, which regulates genes and biochemical pathways important for vascular tone and endothelial health.
  • Healthy methylation and vascular function help maintain appropriate placental blood flow, reducing risk for conditions linked to high blood pressure in pregnancy.

General Nutrition and Lifestyle Strategies for All Genotypes

Regardless of genetic status, supporting MTHFR function and vascular health improves pregnancy outcomes. Consider these foundational actions:

  • Diet: Prioritize natural folate from leafy greens, legumes, asparagus, broccoli, and liver. Include foods rich in B12 (animal products or fortified foods), vitamin B6 (chickpeas, poultry, fish), and riboflavin (dairy, eggs, lean meats).
  • Omega-3s: Consume fatty fish or plant-based omega-3 sources and discuss fish oil or DHA supplementation with your care provider to support fetal brain and vascular health.
  • Supplements: Use a prenatal supplement that provides methylated folate (5-MTHF) rather than unmetabolized folic acid if advised by your clinician. Ensure adequate vitamin D and magnesium as recommended by your provider.
  • Blood pressure: Monitor blood pressure regularly throughout pregnancy and report any elevated readings to your healthcare team.
  • Lifestyle: Stay moderately active per your provider’s guidance, maintain healthy weight gain, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol.
  • Testing: Follow recommended prenatal labs and screenings. Discuss genetic and nutritional results with your prenatal provider to tailor care.
2 effect alleles — GG genotype (protective)

If your genotype at rs17367504 is GG, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with protection against hypertension and a reduced risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy. Your genetic profile may contribute to improved blood pressure regulation and better vascular health, supporting healthy placental function and fetal blood flow.

What this may mean for you

  • Lower baseline risk for pregnancy-related high blood pressure compared to those without the G allele.
  • Potentially improved placental blood flow supporting fetal growth and lowering some complications associated with hypertensive disorders.

Actions to maximize protection

  • Continue eating folate-rich foods such as leafy greens, legumes, and fortified whole grains.
  • Ensure adequate intake of B vitamins: B12, B6, and riboflavin to support methylation and energy metabolism.
  • Include omega-3 rich foods or discuss supplementation to support vascular and fetal health.
  • Consider a prenatal vitamin with methylated folate if recommended by your clinician.
  • Maintain routine blood pressure checks during pregnancy and follow your provider’s advice for prenatal care.
  • Stay physically active within guidelines, avoid tobacco, and limit alcohol to support overall maternal and fetal wellbeing.
1 effect allele — AG genotype (partially protective)

If your genotype at rs17367504 is AG, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with protective benefits against pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia, though the effect may be intermediate compared with GG.

What this may mean for you

  • Some genetic advantage for blood pressure regulation and vascular health compared to those with two non-effect alleles.
  • Potential reduction in risks like poor fetal growth or preterm birth tied to hypertensive disorders.

Actions to maximize benefit

  • Prioritize folate-rich foods: leafy greens, legumes, and other whole food sources.
  • Ensure adequate B vitamins including B12, B6, and riboflavin to support methylation and cardiovascular function.
  • Include omega-3 fatty acids in the diet and discuss prenatal DHA supplementation as appropriate.
  • Consider prenatal supplements that include methylated folate, vitamin D, and magnesium when advised by your provider.
  • Monitor blood pressure regularly, stay physically active according to your provider’s guidance, and maintain healthy weight gain during pregnancy.
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to reduce risks to you and your baby.
0 effect alleles — AA genotype (typical baseline risk)

If your genotype at rs17367504 is AA, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. Without the G allele’s protective association, your genetic risk for pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders like preeclampsia is generally typical compared to those with protective alleles.

What this may mean for you

  • Your baseline genetic risk for hypertensive pregnancy disorders is not elevated by this variant, but it also lacks the protective influence offered by the G allele.
  • Other genetic, medical, and environmental factors will shape your overall risk profile.

Actions to support healthy outcomes

  • Support MTHFR and methylation pathways through diet: folate from greens, legumes, and liver; and B12, B6, and riboflavin from varied foods or supplements if needed.
  • Discuss a prenatal supplement containing methylated folate with your healthcare provider to ensure adequate active folate availability.
  • Ensure sufficient vitamin D and magnesium as advised, and consider omega-3 supplementation for vascular and fetal benefits.
  • Engage in regular prenatal monitoring, including blood pressure checks, and follow recommendations for activity and weight management.
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to reduce risks associated with pregnancy complications.

When to Talk with Your Healthcare Provider

  • If you have a personal or family history of hypertension, preeclampsia, or other pregnancy complications.
  • If prenatal blood tests show low folate, B12 deficiency, or abnormal blood pressure readings.
  • If you are considering methylated folate or high-dose supplements, especially with other medical conditions or medications.
  • For personalized prenatal planning, genetic counseling, or adjustments to nutrition and supplementation.

Important Disclaimer

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions and does not provide medical advice. This report is for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before making changes to supplements, medications, or prenatal care plans. Your provider can interpret genetic results in the context of your full medical history, current health, and pregnancy needs.