Unexplained infertility occurs when fertility tests do not reveal an apparent cause of the condition. At ReceptivaDx, we test the BCL6 levels to determine if your infertility stems from endometriosis — one of the leading causes of infertility. Endometriosis can be symptomatic or asymptomatic and is often linked with indescribable infertility cases. Here’s an overview of the steps to take when your doctor cannot identify the immediate cause of infertility:
Use the ReceptivaDx Test
The ReceptivaDx test examines the level of BCL6 protein. Contact us to schedule a test or to ask any questions. High levels of this protein are linked with endometrial inflammation and may suggest the presence of endometriosis. Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition caused by extrauterine endometrial tissue growth. Endometrial tissues grow inside the uterus in preparation for fertilization and implantation. The endometrial tissues are shed with the rest of the menses if no fertilization occurs.
Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial tissues grow outside the uterus. This can be in the fallopian tube, cervix, and other regions. Extrauterine tissues may not have a clear exit, so they get trapped wherever they grow. They may also block the path of the eggs, preventing fertilization and implantation. Endometriosis is one of the prime causes of unexplained infertility.
Some cases of endometriosis are easy to detect. Symptoms like heavy menses, extremely painful cramps, and pain during intercourse and bowel movements are linked to endometriosis. Some women don’t show any symptoms, so they won’t know about endometriosis. For such cases, only the BCL6 test can help. Our ReceptivaDx test can reveal whether endometriosis is the cause of your infertility. A positive result suggests you may have endometriosis.
Treat the Endometriosis
If the ReceptivaDx test results are positive, you’ll need further diagnosis. Your fertility doctor may recommend various tests, including pelvic examination, ultrasound, MRI, and laparoscopy. If the diagnosis reveals the presence of extrauterine endometrial tissue growth, the doctor can suggest the best treatment. Medication can improve some cases, but surgical removal is the most effective solution.
Removing the abnormal growth may open the path to normal fertilization and implantation. Endometriosis is treatable, but you need to start early. Your fertility doctor may recommend the best treatment based on the severity of your condition. Hormonal therapy and fertility treatment may also help increase the odds of natural conception without addressing endometriosis.
Your doctor may suggest hysterectomy removal of the ovaries, fertility treatment, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The goal is to increase the chances of a successful transfer and pregnancy. Severe cases of endometriosis can only improve with surgery. The fertility doctor may scan and remove the abnormal growth.
Consider Assisted Reproductive Technology
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) can address various male and female factor infertility. Popular ARTs include in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). IVF involves fertilizing the egg in the lab and transferring the embryo for implantation in the uterus. IUI involves selecting the best quality sperm cells and transferring them through the uterus for fertilization during ovulation.
ARTs offer a higher chance of conceiving a child but may fail for various reasons. Endometriosis is among the leading causes of failed IVF, which can be financially and emotionally draining. Before you consider IVF, IUI, or any other fertility treatment, we recommend taking the ReceptivaDx test. The test may determine whether you have endometriosis and may have the potential to save you time and money.
Treating endometriosis may increase the chances of a successful IVF. Some women may conceive naturally after treating endometriosis. ARTs are the standard treatment for unexplained cases of infertility in women. You need an experienced fertility specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Treatment involves pregnancy medication, hormonal therapy, ovulation induction, and more.
Other Solutions to Unexplained Cases of Infertility
Unresolved infertility can be stressful because you don’t know the underlying problem. Our ReceptivaDx test can help you determine if infertility stems from endometrial inflammation. If not, your fertility doctor may try different solutions until they find one that works.
You may be put under fertility medication like gonadotrophins and clomiphene to stimulate egg production and ovulation. The fertility doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes like avoiding smoking and alcohol abuse. Other changes include maintaining a healthy weight, treating known medical conditions, establishing a balanced diet, regular workouts, and stress reduction. Also, consider limiting caffeine consumption and the timing of your intercourse.
The fertility doctor may help you determine the best window for intercourse. You may use ovulation kits to predict ovulation and time your intercourse. The goal is to increase the chances of fertilization and natural birth. Certain treatment options won’t work if you have endometriosis, so we recommend trying the ReceptivaDx test before investing in infertility treatments.
Key Takeaways About Unexplained Infertility
Your infertility doctor can perform various standard tests to determine the cause of your infertility. Endometriosis is the leading cause of such conditions and also causes treatment failure. Try our ReceptivaDx test to determine if your infertility stems from endometriosis.