Fertility is not governed by a single hormone or organ; it is shaped by a complex interplay of genetics, methylation, detoxification, inflammation, stress physiology, mitochondrial health, nutrient status, medication interactions and the emotional landscape of the nervous system. When methylation is impaired, or when the system is carrying hidden biochemical stress, the delicate orchestration of conception, implantation, pregnancy and early development becomes harder to sustain. My work is to understand these patterns at the root.

Through Lifecode Gx testing, I explore the key methylation genes that influence fertility: MTHFR, MTR, MTRR and BHMT, which regulate folate and B12 activation, DNA synthesis and repair, homocysteine recycling, and the methyl groups needed for hormone production, ovulation, implantation and embryonic development. SHMT1 affects the folate cycle and cellular division; COMT, MAOA and MAOB influence stress hormones and neurotransmitters that affect ovulatory patterns, libido, mood, sleep and overall reproductive resilience.

Elevated homocysteine, often linked to slower methylation pathways, can impair blood flow to the uterus and placenta, reduce egg quality, disrupt implantation, and increase the risk of miscarriage or pregnancy complications. Variants in APOE, PPARs, ESR1, CYP450 enzymes, GSTs, NQO1 and SOD2 influence hormone metabolism, detoxification, oxidative stress and inflammation — all of which affect ovarian, uterine and testicular health. FUT2 and HLA variants impact gut immunity and nutrient absorption, which directly shape fertility, methylation capacity and early immune development in the embryo.

Functional testing helps reveal the wider landscape: hormone imbalances (oestrogen, progesterone, DHEA, testosterone), adrenal dysfunction, thyroid issues, mitochondrial fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, chronic inflammation, dysbiosis, candida, high histamine, poor detoxification, or impaired folate/B12 utilisation. For many couples, unexplained infertility is not unexplained at all - it is simply not yet understood through a root-cause lens.

Medications also play a significant role. Antidepressants, antacids, hormonal contraceptives, steroids, immune modulators, metformin and painkillers can deplete essential nutrients, elevate homocysteine, disrupt ovulation, alter cervical mucus, affect mitochondrial function or interfere with methylation. Understanding these interactions is essential for safe, informed decision-making.

But fertility is never just biochemical. It is deeply influenced by the nervous system, attachment patterns, trauma history, grief, fear of loss, chronic stress and the emotional meaning-making around conception. The body is less likely to shift into receptivity when it is in long-term survival mode. My therapeutic work supports emotional regulation, safety, coherence and readiness - essential for hormonal balance and reproductive health.

By integrating DNA insights, functional medicine, natural treatments, emotional support and a deep understanding of the relational and nervous-system layers, I create a personalised pathway to improve fertility, optimise methylation, balance hormones and support a healthy conception and pregnancy. This work offers clarity, compassion and a holistic roadmap for individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges.