In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is a type of artificial reproductive technology utilized to promote pregnancy. Failure can be caused by different factors, and ReceptivaDx is a resource to help identify potential causes. Here are several possible reasons behind IVF failure and how to address them:
Inflammation and Implantation Issues
In vitro fertilization includes several steps, such as egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo development; the egg is then transferred to the patient. Lining inflammation can impact embryo implantation and cause IVF failure. This condition, known as endometriosis, occurs when tissue that resembles endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus and causes inflammation of the lining.
Endometriosis can make it harder for an embryo to attach to the uterus by affecting the uterine lining and changing the environment needed for implantation. This alteration lowers chances of successful implantation, resulting in IVF failure even if the transfer was successful. Endometriosis is also associated with scar tissue and adhesions that block fallopian tubes and connect organs and pelvic tissue. Silent endometriosis may be more difficult to detect in patients as it is often asymptomatic, with the main symptom being infertility. Difficulty identifying the cause of infertility contributes to repeated IVF failures.
Endometriosis and Fertility Problems
Some tests help with determining the likelihood of endometriosis. The ReceptivaDx test utilizes a biopsy sample that is taken from the endometrium; this procedure can be completed during an office visit and should be timed for seven to 10 days after ovulation. For patients in an IVF setting, they are able to have the sample taken during a mock cycle, or six to 10 days after progesterone.
The test identifies the BCL6 protein marker; higher levels suggest that inflammation is present. A positive result indicates a 90% chance of the condition, while a negative result shows a less than 7% chance. Results are available within seven to 10 days.
Testing for inflammation allows a practitioner to determine appropriate treatments to improve the chances of IVF success. A provider is able to go over fertility goals and symptom severity with the patient to determine appropriate treatment methods. A laparoscopy helps diagnose endometriosis by using a small camera to view the pelvic organs and identify lesions. Doctors can also remove lesions during the procedure. Receiving appropriate treatments, such as surgical laparoscopy, increases IVF chances for women with high BCL6 levels from 12% to over 62%.
Progesterone Resistance and Chronic Endometritis
Conditions such as chronic endometritis and progesterone resistance also cause IVF failures. Chronic endometritis is a bacterial infection of the uterine lining, and it disrupts the embryo process. Progesterone is a hormone that prepares the uterine lining for pregnancy. Progesterone resistance makes the hormone function less effectively, creating an environment that does not support the embryo.
The presence of the BCL6 marker may be a sign of progesterone resistance. A ReceptivaDx test is also able to test for the CD138 marker, which is located on plasma cells and is a sign of chronic inflammation. It is associated with chronic endometritis, and the cells are lower or absent in healthy endometrial tissue.
Treatment options for these conditions include hormone suppression treatments and antibiotics. Treatments such as GnRH antagonists and agonists work to reduce inflammation. Progesterone treatments are also available to address progesterone resistance and promote additional uterine tissue growth to create a more stable uterine environment.
Drugs and Alcohol
Recreational drugs, alcohol, and smoking can interfere with IVF cycles, as they impact a patient’s ability to sustain pregnancy. Toxic exposure, as well as pollutants, also has a negative effect on reproductive organs and lowers a patient’s number of healthy eggs. A practitioner or nutritionist will provide strategies for quitting, as stopping drug use prior to an IVF cycle helps the patient’s chances of success.
A fertility doctor conducts assessments to review a patient’s lifestyle, such as current diet and health history. This allows the specialist to work with the patient to incorporate lifestyle changes, promoting a healthy diet and exercise program to support conception and reproductive health. This includes incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids for embryo development and whole grains to support a healthy endometrial lining. Fiber-rich vegetables support digestive health, which is beneficial for individuals managing endometriosis symptoms. Light exercise, such as swimming and walking, helps promote hormonal balance. Running and other high-intensity exercises increase physical strain and may not be conducive to a reproductive treatment plan.
Learn More About IVF Failure
Working with a practitioner to determine causes of IVF failure and potential treatments helps increase the chances of IVF success. A reproductive specialist or OB-GYN can order the test and review the results with the patient. Patients are then able to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation on the phone to discuss the test process and findings. To learn more about the ReceptivaDx test, schedule a consultation with our team today.
