Should you get tested for MTHFR?
Many sources claim that it’s not necessary to get tested for MTHFR, but there are a few reasons that it can be beneficial. MTHFR testing can provide valuable information about your risks for nutritional deficiencies, elevated homocysteine, mental health disorders, and other conditions. A doctor may recommend an MTHFR test if you already have high homocysteine levels, as your treatment may need to take this into account.
You may also want an MTHFR test result if you or your family members have a history of high homocysteine or cardiovascular conditions. You should also have an MTHFR test if you have family members dealing with depression, mental health issues, or blood vessel disorders. Those who are considering starting a family are also encouraged to get an MTHFR test to check for a variety of reproductive health issues. Folate plays a critical role in fetal development during pregnancy, and folic acid is often prescribed to women who are pregnant. However, a MTHFR mutation will mean folic acid is not properly metabolized in the body, which could affect the baby’s development.1 Women who have had unexplained miscarriages should also undergo MTHFR testing, as the mutation is associated with pregnancy loss.