Can Celiac Disease Cause Fertility Problems?

Celiac disease is a condition that causes damage to the small intestine and affects the body's ability to absorb nutrients, according to the Mayo Clinic. The condition is triggered by gluten, which is found in foods that contain wheat, such as bread, pasta, baked goods, and pizza crust. It might not seem like this digestive condition could affect your ability to have a normal pregnancy, but does it? Here's what women should know about the link between celiac disease and fertility.

Can Celiac Disease Cause Infertility?

Undiagnosed celiac disease has been linked to fertility problems among women. One study found that women with endometriosis were 2.5 times more likely to suffer from celiac disease, according to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA). Celiac disease has also been linked to painful periods, painful sexual intercourse, and chronic pelvic pain, according to the NFCA. These problems can affect a woman's desire to have sex, which could be indirectly related to fertility.

Is There a Link Between the Digestive Condition and Miscarriage?

Research has found that there is a link between this digestive condition and miscarriage. In fact, one study found that the risk of miscarriage was nine times higher among women with untreated celiac disease, according to the Celiac Awareness Campaign of the National Institutes of Health. If you experience recurrent miscarriages with no other unidentifiable cause, it may be ideal to talk to your doctor about being tested for this digestive condition.

Does Celiac Disease Cause Low Birth Weight?

Women with celiac disease are more likely to have low birth weight babies. A study found that the risk of low birth weight babies was six times higher among women with the digestive condition, according to the Celiac Awareness Campaign of the National Institutes of Health. There is also believed to be a link between the condition and premature labor, though more research needs to be done to confirm this.

Why Does This Digestive Condition Affect Fertility?

There are a few reasons celiac disease is believed to cause fertility problems and pregnancy complications. For starters, women with this digestive condition have decreased levels of leptin, a hormone that plays a role in reproductive function, according to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. Another reason celiac disease may cause fertility problems is because it makes it more difficult for you to absorb vitamins. It's important for pregnant women to meet all of their nutritional requirements as the baby is developing. Without these vitamins, low birth weight and miscarriage may be more likely.

It's possible to have a healthy pregnancy if you do have celiac disease. Once you have been diagnosed with the condition, it's important to stay away from foods which contain gluten to manage the disease.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional if you are concerned about your health.

Sources:
Celiac Awareness Campaign of the National Institutes of Health
Mayo Clinic
National Foundation for Celiac Awareness