What is ERA Test?
In assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF, a significant portion of negative outcomes can be attributed to issues related to eggs, sperm, or embryos. However, in addition to the quality of the embryos, the uterine tissue and the uterine environment, which provide nourishment and support for the embryo, are also crucial factors.
During the treatment process, routine evaluations are performed in clinics to assess the uterine environment, usually through procedures like hysteroscopy or ultrasound. These examinations can help identify certain pathologies (such as fibroids, polyps, septum, or uterine adhesions) that may hinder pregnancy, and many of these pathologies can be corrected through surgical intervention.
However, these evaluations cannot determine the overall health of the cellular microenvironment responsible for embryo implantation and whether it is ready to receive the embryo, aside from these specific pathologies.
In recent years, studies have observed certain situations in which couples who have undergone multiple attempts and transferred high-quality embryos still fail to achieve pregnancy. These situations include:
– The uterine tissue may not develop synchronously with embryo development.
– The uterine tissue may not reach the appropriate level of maturity for embryo implantation when the embryo is ready for pregnancy.
In such cases, the Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA) test is employed. The ERA test helps determine the optimal window of endometrial receptivity, the period in which the uterine tissue is most receptive to embryo implantation, before undergoing IVF treatment. This allows for predicting the most suitable day for embryo transfer to increase the success rates of pregnancy.
What is the Possible Benefit of the ERA Test in Donation Treatments?
Due to the use of high-potential eggs and sperm in donation treatments, the success of the treatment relies largely on the capacity of the uterine tissue to accept the embryo, rather than solely on the quality of the eggs, sperm, and embryo.
The results obtained from the ERA test demonstrate that, especially in certain patients, accurately determining the treatment program and the timing of embryo transfer, and making adjustments if necessary, can further enhance the success of achieving pregnancy. The results from the ERA test also provide insights into the reasons behind past unsuccessful attempts, allowing for a better understanding of the factors contributing to those outcomes.
How is the ERA Test Applied?
In the ERA test, the patient’s endometrial lining is monitored in a specific program along with the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Subsequently, a small biopsy of the endometrial tissue is taken during a planned day, typically in an operating room environment, and often with the administration of a mild sedative for the patient’s comfort.
The collected tissue is then analyzed in detail using advanced molecular genetic diagnostic techniques, examining over 230 gene regions and gene products. Within approximately 4 weeks, the results are evaluated to determine the potential of the patient’s uterine tissue to accept the embryo. The suitability of the tissue for embryo implantation is assessed, and the day of embryo transfer is determined based on these results.
Things to Know About the ERA Test
To maximize the benefits of the ERA test for prospective couples, it is crucial to plan the test and treatment based on frozen embryo transfer procedures.
In other words, the ERA test is not suitable for treatments that involve hormone stimulation and fresh transfers after oocyte retrieval.
In order to ensure that the benefits of the ERA test extend beyond its limitations, the clinic considering the test should also have a high success rate in frozen embryo transfers and procedures. We have the largest and most well-equipped embryology laboratory in Cyprus, equipped with state-of-the-art devices.
How Much Does the ERA Test Cost?
The price of the ERA test is determined based on the treatment process. In British Cyprus, the cost of the ERA test varies depending on the medical condition of the couples and the required tests and treatments.
To obtain detailed information about the price of the ERA test and other methods to enhance success, you can fill out our contact form or reach us via WhatsApp.
