ERA (Endometrial Receptivity Analysis)

Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA)

Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA) is a diagnostic test designed to determine the optimal timing for embryo transfer during in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. By evaluating endometrial receptivity, ERA aims to enhance the likelihood of successful implantation and pregnancy.

What is ERA?

ERA is a genomic test that analyses the endometrial lining to determine the best time for embryo transfer. This test evaluates the expression of genes associated with endometrial receptivity.

ERA is performed to identify the precise window of implantation (WOI), which varies among women. Knowing this optimal time helps schedule embryo transfers more effectively.

Advantages:

• ERA improves the success rates of IVF by ensuring embryos are transferred at the most receptive time.
• This reduces the chances of implantation failure and increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
• It can be helpful for patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) who have experienced repeated unsuccessful IVF cycles.

Why is ERA Recommended?

Here are the key reasons why ERA testing is recommended:

1. IVF Cycle Failure
   • ERA helps identify the optimal time for embryo transfer in women who have experienced IVF cycle failures.
   • By pinpointing the exact window of implantation, ERA can significantly enhance the chances of a successful pregnancy.
2. Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
   • For women with recurrent pregnancy loss, ERA provides valuable insights into endometrial receptivity.
   • This information helps in adjusting the timing of embryo transfer to improve implantation success and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
3. Patients with Limited Embryos
   • For women with very few embryos available for transfer, ERA can help identify the optimal timing.
   • This maximises the chances of success by ensuring that the embryos are transferred at the most receptive time.

How ERA is Done?

ERA evaluates uterine receptivity for embryo implantation during IVF. Here’s how ERA is performed:

ERA Test

The ERA test involves these steps:

• The patient takes medications to stimulate uterine lining growth, monitored via ultrasounds and blood tests.
• When adequately developed, a minor endometrial biopsy collects a small sample of uterine tissue.
• The sample is sent to a lab, where 236 genes related to endometrial receptivity are analysed using advanced genetic sequencing.
• The results indicate if the endometrium is “receptive” (ready for embryo transfer) or “non-receptive” (not in the optimal implantation window).