Does Bacteria In The Uterus Affect My IVF Success?

Does gut bacteria affect IVF success?

We know that gut health is very important and can have an effect on many areas of our health. Trials have shown that bacteria in the uterus does have an effect on IVF success.

How does it work?

The endometrium is the internal lining of the uterus. It is where the embryo implants and grows during pregnancy.

We know that a healthy endometrium is rich in healthy bacteria; the endometrial flora.
New research has shown that antibiotics may be able to rebalance the make-up of bacteria in the uterus to boost the chances of a woman falling pregnant through IVF.

Why is gut health important?

We know that gut health is very important and that it can have an effect on many areas of our health including blood pressure, obesity and digestive problems.

It has been shown through recent studies that this bacteria in the uterus may help treat and increase a woman’s chance of getting pregnant.

New trials will test whether antibiotics can rebalance the bacteria and boost the chances of pregnancy.

The make-up of a woman’s endometrial microbiome can reduce or boost the likelihood of an embryo implanting in her womb. If the healthy bacteria levels in the endometrium are low, chances of pregnancy may be reduced.

Is there a test for uterine bacteria?

I currently offer two tests to my patients – EMMA and ALICA.

• EMMA (Endometrial Microbiome Metagenomic Analysis) – analyses the endometrial microbiome for a better reproductive prognosis.
• ALICE (Analysis of Infectious Chronic Endometriosis) – detects the bacteria causing chronic endometritis and recommends the adequate treatment.

Recommended treatment includes probiotics to help rebalance the endometrial flora as well as antibiotics to help treat the endometritis.

Watch our video below for more information or read our article discussing the best foods to boost fertility.