HLA-DQ2 is a genetic risk marker for celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten. Untreated celiac disease can impair fertility in both women (prolonged time to pregnancy, higher miscarriage rates) and men (reduced sperm quality). The mechanism is thought to involve malabsorption of key nutrients such as zinc, iron, and folate, as well as systemic inflammation. Crucially, only a minority of HLA-DQ2 carriers develop celiac disease; penetrance is low. A genetic test alone does not diagnose gluten intolerance. For individuals with known HLA-DQ2 status and unexplained infertility, serological screening (tTG-IgA) and possibly duodenal biopsy should be considered. A gluten-free diet can restore fertility in confirmed celiac patients. Evidence comes from clinical studies and reviews, but is not present in the provided context. MyBody-X does not test for HLA-DQ2; consumer fertility-related genetic tests have limited clinical utility.
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