Myths vs facts: COMT and Fruchtbarkeit

The COMT polymorphism rs4680 (Val158Met) is often linked to fertility, but the evidence is moderate and not conclusive. COMT degrades catecholamines and estrogens; the slower Met variant may lead to higher estradiol levels, which could theoretically affect fertility. Studies show associations with endometriosis risk (Met allele increases risk in some populations) and IVF outcomes, but effect sizes are small and population-dependent. A direct causal effect on natural fertility is not established. Moreover, COMT is often analyzed in combination with other genes (MTHFR, GST), complicating interpretation. Bottom line: A COMT test alone has no clinical predictive value for fertility. Lifestyle factors (stress, diet, smoking) dominate. Supplements like magnesium or green tea extract are sometimes marketed, but there is insufficient evidence for targeted COMT-based supplementation to improve fertility. Beware of overinterpreted direct-to-consumer tests.