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Views and experiences of infertile women regarding the role of gluten in their infertility

Bold, Justine and Diamantopoulou, Dimitra (2022) Views and experiences of infertile women regarding the role of gluten in their infertility. Obstetrics and Gynecology Research, 5 (4). pp. 296-310. ISSN 2637-4560

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Abstract

Background

Prevalence rates for infertility have increased globally. Untreated coeliac disease (CD) and gluten sensitivity can affect fertility. Guidelines encourage testing of women with unexplained infertility for CD and case studies demonstrate pregnancies after introducing a gluten-free diet (GFD).

Aims

To understand the experiences of women diagnosed with infertility, investigating the potential role of gluten, including testing and implementation of a GFD.

Methods

Participants completed an online survey that included open and closed questions which were coded inductively and analysed using thematic and content analysis.

Findings

29 UK based women completed the survey. The majority identified as White, with one Asian/Asian British, one Mixed, and one Arab participant. Only four had not undergone fertility treatment. Twelve had unexplained infertility, while seven had no diagnosis. Five had primary infertility and five had a secondary infertility diagnosis. TA identified six themes: (1) Experience with gluten in infertility, (2) Experiences with testing for CD, (3) Health beliefs/concerns regarding gluten, (4) Other interventions to help with infertility, (5) Nutritional support for women with infertility, (6) Infertility experience. A GFD alleviated symptoms for those with both intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms. Participants felt unprepared for CD testing and that healthcare personnel did not treat symptoms seriously.

Conclusion

Awareness of extraintestinal manifestations of CD, including unexplained infertility, should be increased amongst healthcare professionals. Women with unexplained infertility should be screened for CD, even without the presence of intestinal symptoms. Women with infertility choosing to implement a GFD need to be better supported.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information:

The full-text of the online published article can be accessed via the official URL.

Uncontrolled Discrete Keywords: Female infertility, coeliac disease, reproductive disorders, gluten, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, gluten free diet
Subjects: R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics
Divisions: College of Health, Life and Environmental Sciences > School of Allied Health and Community
Depositing User: Justine Bold
Date Deposited: 09 Dec 2022 16:10
Last Modified: 09 Dec 2022 16:10
URI: https://eprints.worc.ac.uk/id/eprint/12650

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