Planning to become a mom—or already expecting? Then there’s one thing you need to understand: methylation. It’s a simple but powerful process in your body that can shape your baby’s future.
Methylation affects fertility, pregnancy, baby brain development, and more. If it’s not working right, it can cause issues you might not see coming. In this article, we’ll break down how methylation works, why it matters during pregnancy, and how a methylation test can help you prepare for a healthy baby and a smooth journey.
What Is Methylation?
Methylation is a natural chemical process that helps your body:
- Make DNA and repair cells
- Create brain chemicals
- Regulate hormones
- Detox waste and toxins
- Support baby’s development
During pregnancy, your body does all of this—for two. That means your need for proper methylation nearly doubles.
Why Methylation Matters in Pregnancy
Poor methylation can increase the risk of:
❌ Miscarriage
❌ Neural tube defects (like spina bifida)
❌ Placenta problems
❌ Pre-eclampsia
❌ Low birth weight
❌ Postpartum depression
Healthy methylation helps build your baby’s spine, brain, and immune system—starting from the very first weeks of pregnancy.
The Folate and MTHFR Connection
You’ve heard that folic acid is important before and during pregnancy. But here’s what most prenatal guides don’t tell you:
🔎 Folic acid is synthetic and must be converted into active folate (called 5-MTHF) by an enzyme.
🧬 That enzyme is made by the MTHFR gene.
⚠️ If you have an MTHFR gene mutation, your body may not convert folic acid well.
This can block methylation—leading to the risks listed above.
That’s why many doctors now recommend methylated folate (5-MTHF) instead of folic acid—especially if you have MTHFR issues.
How to Know If You Have MTHFR
The only way to know for sure? Get tested. Our methylation test checks for MTHFR gene variants and also looks at:
- Your folate and B12 levels
- Homocysteine (a marker of poor methylation)
- Other signs your body needs help
This is crucial information for women trying to conceive or already pregnant.
Best Nutrients to Support Methylation During Pregnancy
To keep your methylation strong, focus on these nutrients:
✅ 5-MTHF (active folate) – For baby’s brain, spine, and DNA
✅ Methyl-B12 – Supports energy and mood
✅ Choline – Needed for baby’s memory and brain development
✅ B6 and magnesium – Help process stress and prevent nausea
✅ Zinc and omega-3s – Support hormone balance and growth
You can get these from:
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Eggs (especially the yolk)
- Salmon and sardines
- Beets and avocados
- Liver (once a week)
Should You Take a Prenatal Vitamin?
Yes—but be careful. Many cheap prenatals still contain folic acid, not methylated folate. If you have MTHFR, that can actually make things worse.
Look for a prenatal with:
☑️ 5-MTHF, not folic acid
☑️ Methylcobalamin, not cyanocobalamin (B12)
☑️ No artificial colors, sugars, or fillers
And before supplementing, get tested so you know what your body actually needs.
How a Methylation Test Helps Before or During Pregnancy
A methylation test helps you:
👶 Get your body baby-ready
💊 Choose the right supplements for your genes
🧠 Support your mood, sleep, and hormones
🧬 Reduce the risk of complications
🌱 Give your baby a healthy start in life
You can take the test at home with no need for a doctor’s visit. Results come fast—and include a clear, easy-to-follow report.
Final Thoughts
Being a mom starts with taking care of yourself. And good health starts with good methylation. If you’re trying to conceive, already pregnant, or want to prepare your body for the future—this is the test that gives you answers.
Order your at-home methylation test today and take control of your pregnancy health—naturally.
