Decoding and treating the causes of IVF implantation failure

Embryo transfer is an exciting time, especially when the chances of pregnancy are high. When egg retrieval goes well, then fertilization occurs normally, embryos develop into blastocysts on schedule, and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) finds that embryos are chromosomally normal, everyone involved is optimistic. But in some cases, the embryo doesn’t implant. When this happens more than once, it’s a condition known as recurrent implantation failure, or RIF. Our IVF specialists in Austin have several tools to diagnose and treat the common causes of IVF implantation failure, and we encourage patients who experience RIF to not give up hope.

Why does IVF fail?

When all of the factors are in place for a positive pregnancy test after embryo transfer, but implantation does not occur, it’s time to dig deeper and examine the reasons why – especially if it happens more than once. Several things can cause recurrent IVF implantation failure.

• Chronic endometritis, caused by low-level bacterial infection or inflammation inside the uterus
• Transferring the embryo when the uterine lining is not optimal
• Uterine abnormalities, such as scar tissue, fibroids, polyps or tissue retained from an earlier pregnancy

Thankfully, all of these causes of RIF are treatable once they are detected.

What tests and treatments are available for recurring IVF implantation failure?

Because we understand how much is at stake with every embryo transfer, Texas Fertility Center’s highly experienced reproductive endocrinologists are quick to diagnose and treat the causes of IVF implantation failure. In these cases, we perform several tests to identify any factors that may be interfering with embryo implantation.

• Endometrial receptivity analysis (ERA) biopsy – With this test, we take a small sample of the uterine lining, or endometrium, to determine the ideal day for an embryo transfer. The tissue sample is sent to a specialized genetics laboratory to evaluate the expression levels of genes linked to endometrial receptivity. Based on these test results, we can fine-tune progesterone supplementation to optimize the uterine lining to receive an embryo at exactly the right time, increasing the chances of successful implantation.
• Hysteroscopy – With this minimally invasive procedure, we insert a thin, lighted scope through the cervix and into the uterus, so that we can see the uterine lining and identify any abnormalities. If we find polyps, scar tissue, fibroids or other problems, we can correct them during the same procedure using small surgical tools.
• Medications – In some cases, resolving recurrent implantation failure is as simple as prescribing antibiotics to clear up chronic endometritis caused by a low-level bacterial infection. Steroids can also be used to calm inflammation in the uterine lining. Medications may be prescribed orally or infused directly into the uterus.

After treatment, it may be necessary to wait a few months to allow for healing and for optimal uterine conditions to develop for the next embryo transfer. Careful monitoring of the uterine lining is also important to maximize the chances of success.

Get help from our experienced IVF specialists in Austin

If you have tried IVF without success, it may be time to get a second opinion from our IVF specialists in Austin. We leave no stone unturned in diagnosing the causes of IVF implantation failure and can create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve your goal of having a child. Contact us to schedule an appointment.