ERA Test May Increase Pregnancy Success in Frozen Embryo Transfers

One of the most important factors for efficient success rates with embryo transfers is the synchronization between the embryo and the endometrium. There seems to be a short window (a few hours) for implantation of the embryo; this is primarily affected by progesterone production either from the ovary in a natural conception or progesterone supplementation during an IVF cycle. Up until a few years ago, all patients received five days of progesterone prior to a frozen embryo transfer; however numerous studies performed over the last decade have shown that 30% of patients did not receive the proper number of days of progesterone supplementation prior to a frozen embryo transfer. A recent study has shown that an ERA test may increase pregnancy success in frozen embryo transfers. Here’s an overview of why that may be.

What is the Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA) Test?

The endometrial receptivity analysis is a test which can help determine the number of days of progesterone a specific patient requires for proper implantation. After preparing the endometrial lining for implantation, a biopsy is taken in the clinic and the tissue is sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Benefits of an Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA)?

The lab looks at various gene products to determine if the endometrium has been properly prepared for implantation; the test is able to determine if the patient needs 1 to 2 days more or less progesterone prior to transfer. The ERA test has been utilized at Fertility Centers of New England for approximately five years to help determine the proper number of days the progesterone should be utilized prior to implantation.

Can an Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA) Increase Success With Pregnancy?

A recent randomized controlled study of 458 women with a normal BMI (22-30) less than the age of 38 revealed statistically significant increased live birth rates with personalized embryo transfer (PET) guided by the ERA test as opposed to standard preparation for frozen embryo transfers.

The cumulative life birth rates after 12 months of treatment improved from 55.4% in standard frozen embryo transfers (FET) to 71.2% in PETs. In addition a strong trend was noted in an increase live birth rate on a first transfer with 42.4% patience conceiving with standard supplementation and 56.2% in PET patients. Obstetrical outcomes, type of delivery and health of the baby were similar in both groups. Other important parameters such as pregnancy rates implantation rates were also higher in the PET group. Finally, as has been seen in numerous studies, the live birth rates following a frozen embryo transfer was slightly higher than in fresh IVF cycles.

The Benefits of a Personalized Embryo Transfer With Fertility Centers of New England

This was the first large randomized controlled trial to show the benefits of a PET on a first embryo transfer. At Fertility Centers of New England, we have been offering a personalized embryo transfer based on the Endometrial Receptor Analysis for over five years with much success. Patient patients are encouraged to discuss with their Fertility Centers of New England doctor whether the ERA test is appropriate for them.

If you would like to learn more about how the ERA test may increase pregnancy success in frozen embryo transfers and if this test is right for you, please contact us for a consultation!