- 1 in 100 people in the UK has Coeliac Disease, yet only 36% are diagnosed, leaving many unaware of the link between Coeliac Disease and pregnancy
- It can take up to 13 years on average for someone to be diagnosed – often in their childbearing years
- Up to 50% of women with unexplained infertility may have undiagnosed Coeliac Disease, according to some studies
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune condition where the body reacts to gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye – by attacking the lining of the small intestine. This reaction impairs nutrient absorption and can lead to a host of symptoms, including digestive discomfort, fatigue, skin rashes, and even neurological issues. For women of reproductive age, it can also impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes if left undiagnosed or unmanaged.
Why Coeliac Disease Matters in Pregnancy
Pregnancy demands optimal nutrient absorption to support both mother and baby. For women with undiagnosed or poorly manages Coeliac Disease, malabsorption of key nutrients – such as iron, folate, calcium, and vitamin D, can increase the risk of:
- Miscarriage
- Low birth weight
- Preterm birth
- Fertility issues and irregular menstrual cycles
- Delayed foetal development
A 2020 review published in the British Journal of General Practice highlighted that women with untreated Coeliac Disease had a significantly higher risk of pregnancy complications compared to those on a strict gluten-free diet.
Coeliac Disease and Parenthood: Moving Forward
The good news? Once diagnosed, managing Coeliac Disease with a gluten-free diet can dramatically reduce risks and improve fertility. With proper care, women with Coeliac Disease can enjoy healthy pregnancies and thriving babies.
This Coeliac Awareness Month, we encourage all women – especially those with symptoms, fertility issues, or a family history of Coeliac Disease to consider getting tested.
How Randox Health Can Help
At Randox Health, we offer proactive preventative health checks that can identify Coeliac Disease before symptoms escalate.
Our genetic testing service can screen for predispositions to Coeliac Disease which is ideal for those with a family history. It offers insights into your long-term health risks and helps you make informed lifestyle and dietary choices before, during, or after pregnancy.
Randox Health in-clinic Digestive Health test includes coeliac disease antibody testing. Specifically, it measures anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies, which are highly specific and sensitive markers for diagnosing coeliac disease. These antibodies are produced in response to gluten ingestion in individuals with coeliac disease, leading to immune-mediated damage to the intestinal lining.
Take control of your health today. Book a comprehensive health check with Randox Health and screen for Coeliac Disease as part of your pregnancy journey. For more health news click here.