Abstract

The endometrium is one of the most fascinating tissues in the human body. Its sole purpose is to enable implantation of an embryo during a relatively short window of opportunity in the menstrual cycle. It is becoming clear that overcoming the current bottleneck in improvements to assisted reproductive techniques will require a closer look at the interface between uterus and embryo. Indeed, embryo implantation requires a cross talk with a receptive endometrium. Using sonography, hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy we can learn about anatomical and functional markers of endometrial receptivity. This article reviews the factors which might cause defective endometrial receptivity. These include uterine polyps, septa, leiomyomata and adhesions. The effect of thin endometrium, endometriosis and hydrosalpinx is also described. Finally contemporary investigation of molecular markers of endometrial receptivity is described. Improving embryo implantation by a closer look inside the uterus is the key to increasing pregnancy rates in IVF.

Links

Publisher Full Text

Authors

Revel A

Institution

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel. arielr2@hadassah.org.il

Source

Fertility and sterility 97:5 2012 May pg 1028-32

MeSH

Animals
Cell Adhesion Molecules
Embryo Implantation
Embryo Transfer
Endometrium
Female
Fertilization in Vitro
Genital Diseases, Female
Humans
Infertility
Pregnancy
Risk Factors
Treatment Failure

Pub Type(s)

Journal Article
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

Language

eng

PubMed ID

22542142