Epigenetics and Fertility
Epigenetics refers to how environmental and lifestyle factors influence the way our genes are expressed—without changing the genetic code itself but rather through the use of molecular “switches”. These changes are reversible, and preconception care presents a unique opportunity to influence fertility outcomes and long-term health of future children.
Epigenetic Impacts on Female Fertility
Epigenetic changes can alter hormonal signalling, ovulation, and egg quality. Lifestyle factors such as BMI, exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, poor sleep, and diet all influence epigenetic patterns in oocytes and reproductive tissues.
Effects on Male Fertility and Offspring
Sperm epigenetics are sensitive to factors like obesity, smoking, stress, and environmental toxins. These epigenetic modifications can be transmitted at conception and affect embryo development and long-term child health, including metabolic and neurodevelopmental risks.
How to Optimise Epigenetic Health
- Adopt a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet.
- Avoid smoking, excess alcohol, and exposure to environmental toxins.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Prioritise quality sleep and mental wellbeing.
- Engage in moderate physical activity – target 150-300 minutes a week (average 30-45 minutes a day).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are epigenetic changes inherited?
Epigenetic changes in sperm or egg cells can be passed to offspring and have been shown to influence development, including offspring fertility and metabolic disease risk.
How long before conception should I focus on lifestyle optimisation and epigenetics?
At least three months, which aligns with egg and sperm maturation cycles.
Are supplements helpful for epigenetic health?
Specific micronutrients (e.g. folate, omega-3s, choline) may support healthy gene expression—see me for personalised advice.
Can stress affect fertility epigenetics?
Scientific evidence is challenging, but chronic stress certainly can alter hormonal pathways and would likely affect sperm and egg gene expression.
Is there a test for epigenetics?
Not routinely. Clinical advice focuses on optimising modifiable risk factors known to affect epigenetic health.