Endometrial Receptivity Test (ERA)
The lining layer of the uterus, the endometrium, is receptive and prepared to support an embryo only for a time constraint. The window of implantation refers to this period of receptivity. Women have different “windows” in terms of time and duration, and each woman has her particular window. Following the injection of progesterone supplements for a certain number of days after egg harvest, embryo transfer is routinely perpetrated in IVF therapy. The window of implantation is vital for a healthy pregnancy, whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or through IVF. However, the embryo(s) must be transplanted during this “window of implantation,” neither too early nor too late, to ensure a favourable outcome. The implantation window is the same for most women. Still, it can be different for certain women, which could explain why some women undergoing IVF fail to conceive despite the transfer of excellent quality embryos.
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What is the ERA test?
The Endometrial Receptivity Assessment (ERA) is a groundbreaking test that assesses endometrial receptivity and allows for individualised embryo transfer by determining the best timing for each woman. The goal of the ERA test is to prevent implantation failure by determining the best day for embryo transfer, improving the odds of a good result.
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What the test involves?
It’s a straightforward test that merely involves a tiny endometrial sample taken with a pipelle. The sample is contained in a collection kit and delivered to a lab for testing. The sample is tested utilising the most contemporary next-generation sequencing technologies to examine the expression of 236 genes relevant to implantation, with findings known in 2-3 weeks. The test must be performed on a distinct day of your cycle, and we may recommend you take certain medications in advance to prepare for the test.
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Who could benefit from the test?
The ERA test has been demonstrated to aid patients who have had implantation failure while utilising high-quality embryos. Suppose you’ve had a history of implantation failures, such as recurrent miscarriages or repeated failed IVF treatments, including the transfer of embryos that were confirmed to be normal through genetic testing. In that case, an ERA test may be helpful.