When clients come for help with fertility struggles, the go-to, is usually hormone imbalances and/or structural issues. However, there is another, lesser-known, yet critical factor: the immune system This blog discussed the connection between reproduction and the immune system .
This is where reproductive immunology may be relevant for unexplained infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and also IVF failure.
What is Reproductive Immunology?
Reproductive immunology is how the immune system interacts with our reproductive processes. Our immune system’s job is to protect the body from anything it identifies as foreign. For example, viruses or bacteria. However, for pregnancy a delicate balance is needed.
A developing embryo is made up of both maternal and paternal DNA, meaning it’s technically foreign to the mother’s body. In an ideal situation, the immune system adapts and allows the pregnancy to continue. In some cases though this doesn’t happen as expected, leading to immune related fertility issues.
I had heard of this fertility complication decades ago from my aunt and uncle who had a blood Rh incompatibility. Rh-negative mothers carrying an Rh-positive baby can develop antibodies against the Rh protein, which can potentially harm pregnancies. This is the reason Rh-negative mothers now often receive Rh immunoglobulin shots during pregnancy to prevent this from happening. This was unavailable in the 1950/60’s and my aunt suffered many miscarriages (one at 6 months) and her last child was born profoundly deaf as a result of her immune system attacking her babies.
Over the years we have learned that this issue with immunity is not isolated to the Rh issue
Why is it a Prominent Issue in Fertility?
The complete role of the immune system in reproduction is still being studied. However, within Systematic Kinesiology (SK) we find and correct immunological imbalances that can significantly affect fertility outcomes.
Common immune-related fertility issues include:
- Recurrent miscarriage (2 or more losses)
- Repeated IVF failure
- Unexplained infertility
- Autoimmune disorders (like lupus or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis)
- In some cases, the immune system may attack the embryo or disrupt implantation through overactive natural killer (NK) cells, autoimmune responses, or inflammation in the uterine lining.
How do you Test for Immune-Related Fertility Issues?
Testing for reproductive immunology issues typically goes beyond standard fertility tests. Some of the most common assessments include:
- Natural Killer (NK) Cell Testing: Measures the activity and number of NK cells in the blood or uterine lining.
- Th1/Th2 Cytokine Ratio: Assesses immune balance and inflammatory markers.
- HLA compatibility testing: Looks at genetic compatibility between partners, which can influence immune responses.
Not all fertility clinics routinely offer these tests, so seeking out a reproductive immunology specialist is key.
One such specialist in the UK is Dr. Shaharta, based at a clinic in Epsom, Surrey. Dr. Shaharta has extensive experience in treating immune-related fertility issues and is known for taking a holistic, patient-centered approach—combining advanced testing with individualised treatment strategies.
Natural ways to Support Reproductive Immunology
Within SK we can test, support and rebalance the immune system in several ways together with the endocrine system to enhance fertility.
Natural Treatments for immune-related fertility issues to support a more balanced immune response include:
1. Anti-inflammatory diet – A well-rounded, anti-inflammatory diet can help calm an overactive immune system.
Focus on: Leafy greens, colourful vegetables, berries, fatty acids (avocados, olive oil), whole grains, nuts, seeds. Choose from the list of beneficials for personal blood group.
Reduce or eliminate: Processed foods, refined/added sugars, refined carbs, alcohol.
2. Nutritional Supplements – Certain nutrients can support immune modulation and hormone balance, these can be tested by an SK practitioner.
–Vitamin D: Deficiency is linked with miscarriage and immune dysfunction.
-Omega-3 fatty acids: Help reduce inflammation and regulate NK cell activity.
-CoQ10: Supports cellular health and egg quality.
-Selenium and zinc: Support thyroid function and overall immunity.
-Probiotics: Promote gut health, which is linked to immune function.
3. Lifestyle changes
-Stress reduction: Chronic stress can impair immune balance. SK can offer a variety of emotional stress release techniques which boosts immune function. Also practices like yoga and meditation are suggested.
-Adequate sleep: Helps regulate immune and hormone function. Within our 7/8 hours a night we need to get as many hours between 9.30pm and 2.30pm as we can.
-Moderate exercise: the correct exercises for our blood group supports healthy immune responses and circulation.
Medical Treatments sometimes needed for Immune-Related Fertility Issues
- Steroids (e.g., Prednisone): Used to suppress immune responses and reduce inflammation around the time of embryo transfer or early pregnancy.
- Intralipid Infusions: These are IV infusions of soy or egg-based fats that may help calm overactive NK cells and improve implantation.
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): An advanced and costly treatment where pooled antibodies from donors are given to suppress harmful immune responses.
- Low-dose aspirin and heparin: These blood thinners are sometimes used in women with clotting disorders to improve uterine blood flow.
- Immunomodulatory drugs: In certain autoimmune cases, medications may be used under specialist supervision.
Reproductive immunology is still an emerging area, but for many couples facing fertility challenges it may hold vital answers.
If we experience multiple losses or failed fertility treatments without clear reasons, it’s worth exploring the natural approaches above with an SK Practitioner. Looking at immune/endocrine function, a fertility-focused, anti inflammatory, blood group diet and testing for individual key nutritional deficiencies.
However, sometimes medical treatments are needed with a specialist like Dr. Shaharta in Epsom, Surrey and can provide a comprehensive strategy to support a healthy pregnancy.
To find your nearest SK practitioner please go to taskuknetwork.org.uk
You may also find How Systematic Kinesiology can support Fertility: A natural approach to conception a useful and interesting read.