Recurrent implantation (IVF) failure is defined as 2 or more failed embryo transfers in IVF/ICSI treatment cycles. Recurrent IVF failure is an extremely stressful, and frustrating situation for couples. Couples may experience IVF failure due to reasons that are sometimes unpredictable and sometimes not precautionary. For this reason, all possible problems should be investigated before starting IVF treatment. When problems are left undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to implantation failure. Successful treatment is only possible if an accurate diagnosis is made.
Possible causes of recurrent implantation failure include:
- Low embryo quality due to sperm DNA fragmentation, low sperm morphology, egg quality.
- Uterine abnormalities, such as endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids, adhesions, hydrosalpinges, endometriosis, etc.
- Aneuploid embryos due to maternal age or parental karyotype abnormalities.
Possible investigations in couples with recurrent implantation failure:
- Parental Karyotype
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
- Diagnostic hysteroscopy
- Diagnostic laparoscopy
- Transvaginal Ultrasound
- Endometrial Biopsy
- Sperm DNA fragmentation testing
- Blood Clots/ Thrombophilias tests
- Tests for Autoimmune Diseases
- Endocrine tests: Thyroid panel, Progesterone, Prolactin, Fasting Blood Sugar
- Vitamin tests: Folic acid, B12, Vitamin D, Homocysteine
Possible treatment options in couples with recurrent implantation failure:
- Sperm DNA fragmentation test to choose good quality sperm
- IMSI to choose morphologically normal sperm
- PGT-A for embryo aneuploidy
- Blood Clot Treatment
- Endometrial scratching to make uterine lining more receptive.
- ERA Test to determine if the uterine lining is receptive to embryo implantation.
- Assisted Hatching to rupture the membrane surrounding the embryo
- Laparoscopy to remove endometriosis, hydrosalpinx, fibroid, or for correction of the abnormally shaped uterus.
- Hysteroscopy to remove polyps, fibroids
If you have experienced two or more IVF failures, contact us to learn about treatment options specific to your needs.
