According to the WHO (World Health Organization), it is estimated that approximately 15% of couples may experience difficulties achieving a pregnancy. The causes can be diverse, ranging from hormonal disruptions and environmental factors to genetic influences.
Advances in assisted reproduction have shown that reproductive success does not depend solely on inherited genes, but also on how these genes are expressed through epigenetic mechanisms.
What is epigenetics?
Epigenetics studies how certain internal and external factors can influence the way genes "turn on" or function, without altering the inherited genetic information. In assisted reproduction, these mechanisms can influence key processes such as :
- The quality of eggs and sperm.
- Fertilization.
- Embryo implantation.
- Early embryo development.
Epigenetics and assisted reproduction
Epigenetics has helped us understand that external factors can influence the reproductive process, and therefore, the conditions that can favor the success of treatments. These include :
- Diet and nutrition.
- Stress.
- Physical activity.
- Tobacco or alcohol consumption.
- Exposure to environmental toxins.
Given its importance, lifestyle choices before and during assisted reproduction treatment can significantly affect its final outcome.
Epigenetics and egg donation
One of the most interesting examples of epigenetics is observed in treatments such as egg donation or the ROPA method . Even though the genetic material of the embryo does not come from the carrying mother, the uterine environment can influence embryonic development through epigenetic mechanisms.
This reinforces the idea that pregnancy does not depend solely on genes, but is an active biological process in which the maternal environment plays a crucial role.
Beyond genes
Epigenetics helps us understand that fertility goes far beyond genetic inheritance. Taking these factors into account allows for a more holistic approach to reproduction and helps optimize the conditions that favor the success of assisted reproduction treatments.
At Barcelona IVF , this knowledge is integrated into a personalized approach based on scientific evidence, healthy habits, and reproductive medicine oriented toward both maternal and embryonic well-being from the very beginning.
