3 Health Screenings To Get Before Undergoing IVF
Testing your reproductive health can be the first step in your fertility journey, giving you valuable information about your body. These tests help you identify your ovulation cycle, and they assist with diagnosing any underlying conditions like endometriosis. Here are three different screenings to try before you undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF):
1. Endometriosis Detection
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus. This can cause pelvic pain and infertility. Other symptoms of endometriosis include painful periods, fatigue, and digestive issues. Asymptomatic issues affect the success rate of IVF implantation with uterine wall inflammation or polyps. This means that you could still have the condition even if you do not experience any common symptoms.
MyReceptiva™ is a highly accurate detection test for endometriosis. It works by pinpointing BCL6, a protein created by a specific gene that correlates with the condition. High levels of BCL6 in the uterine lining are present in over 90% of both symptomatic and asymptomatic endometriosis cases.
To complete this detection test, your healthcare provider will take a sample of the uterine lining. They will send this sample to a lab for examination, and you will typically receive your results within seven to 10 business days. If you test positive for BCL6, a surgeon may perform a laparoscopy. This surgical procedure visually inspects the internal reproductive system, allowing your doctor to make an official diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis enables healthcare providers to recommend a suitable treatment to improve the chances of successful IVF.
2. Fertility Cycle Screening
Fertility cycle screening provides valuable reproductive health information, allowing you to know your peak ovulation window for a higher implantation success rate. A fertility cycle typically lasts 30 days and consists of four different phases. Menstruation is the start of the cycle, and it occurs when the uterine lining sheds during your period. The follicular phase is the following week, during which the body prepares to release an egg, and estrogen rises.
Ovulation is the phase where pregnancy is highly likely to occur. This is when the mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube and may be fertilized if sperm is present. Once ovulation is complete, the luteal phase begins with an increase in progesterone. Each woman has a different cycle that is unique to their body. A fertility screening can help give you an increased chance of a successful pregnancy.
3. Pathology Analysis
A pathology analysis looks for any abnormalities of hormone balances and cellular structures for signs of underlying conditions. It tests your ovulatory function, ovarian reserves, and the health of each reproductive structure. Atypical cells could be a sign of cancer or benign growths in the uterine lining called polyps. Polyps are not usually harmful, but they may impede the ability of successful implantation by taking up room in the uterus like an IUD.
Order Your Reproductive Health Testing Kit
MyReceptiva provides valuable information about reproductive health and fertility. It allows doctors to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, such as inflammation, atypical cells, and endometrial tissue. Many of these underlying symptoms are treatable, enhancing the chances of a successful IVF treatment. Contact us today by phone or email to receive your testing kit.