Endometrial Receptivity Assay (ERA)
Several Scientific Studies suggest the Endometrium (the lining of the womb) is an important factor for a healthy pregnancy.. Some studies have shown that in couples with repeated implantation failure during fertility treatment the window of implantation (the time when the endometrium is ready for an embryo to implant) might have been missed. The theory is that 35% of women with recurrent implantation failure are either pre-receptive or post-receptive during this window.
A test has been developed to check the status of the woman’s endometrial receptivity and help to prevent implantation failure. This test is called the Endometrial Receptivity Assay (ERA). It should identify the window of implantation determine the ideal time for embryo transfer and potentially increases the chances of a successful outcome. A mock transfer cycle is performed and the ERA test is done instead of transferring any embryos. Following the recommendations of the results of the test, the real blastocyst transfer should be performed in the same type of cycle and on the same day of the cycle in which a receptive result is obtained. Some studies suggested that ERA resulted in a 73% pregnancy rate in patients with implantation failure.
It is important to note that the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) has not made any recommendations about the value of this test.
You may find the information given on the Cooper Genomics website helpful.
Shropshire & Mid-Wales Fertility Unit has recently introduced this service and offers this test for women who have experienced implantation failure with good-quality embryos. The test is not funded by the NHS and therefore will need to be self-funded by the patient if they wish. The mock cycle and test currently costs in the region of £1000 plus drugs.
For more information please contact the fertility unit on 01743 261202 option 2 to speak to a member of the team.