Endometrial Factor in Unexplained Infertility and Recurrent Implantation Failure

Semin Reprod Med. 2021 Nov;39(5-06):227-232. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1735199. Epub 2021 Aug 23.

Abstract

Unexplained infertility (UI) and recurrent implantation failure (RIF) are diagnoses based on failed pregnancy attempts within current infertility treatment models. Both diagnoses are made when fertility is unexplained based on current diagnostic methods and has no clear cause; UI is diagnosed when testing is inconclusive, and RIF is diagnosed after three failed in vitro fertilization cycles. In both cases, interventions are often introduced without an understanding of the cause of the infertility, frequently leading to frustration for patients and caregivers. Here, we review evidence to support an influence of endometrial factor in patients given these poorly defined diagnoses and possible treatments targeting the endometrium to improve outcomes in these patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Embryo Implantation
  • Endometrium
  • Female
  • Fertility
  • Fertilization in Vitro
  • Humans
  • Infertility*
  • Infertility, Female* / diagnosis
  • Infertility, Female* / etiology
  • Infertility, Female* / therapy
  • Pregnancy