An endometrial biopsy can provide information about uterine receptivity and health
Our Dallas-Fort Worth fertility specialists have a lot of tools that they can use to make an infertility diagnosis. One of them is an endometrial biopsy. This test involves taking a tiny sample of the cells from a woman’s uterine lining (endometrium), which is where an embryo will implant.
By assessing an endometrial sample, our team can learn more about whether the uterine lining is healthy. The results can also show us when the endometrium is the most receptive to supporting a developing embryo.
What is an endometrial biopsy and how does it work?
To have a healthy pregnancy, you need more than just a healthy embryo. You also need a healthy and receptive uterine lining. Otherwise, the embryo will not be able to implant and grow into a baby.
By taking an endometrial biopsy, our Dallas-Fort Worth fertility specialists gain valuable information about your uterine lining, which can help you become a parent.
To perform the biopsy, one of our doctors will gently place a speculum into the vagina to see the cervix (the opening to the uterus). They will then pass a thin catheter through the cervix until they reach the top of the uterus. From there, the doctor will take a tiny piece of tissue from the endometrium.
The entire procedure only takes a minute or two, and you can resume your normal activities the same day. However, you may notice a little spotting after the procedure.
What can this test tell us and who should consider it?
By taking a biopsy of the uterine lining, our Dallas-Fort Worth fertility specialists can learn a lot about your uterine receptivity and health.
- Whether the uterine lining can allow implantation (uterine receptivity)
- When the lining is receptive (implantation window)
- Whether endometriosis or an infection of the uterine lining (endometritis) is present
Because this test provides such vital information, it can benefit several groups of patients.
- Women who have had IVF failure after transferring genetically normal embryos
- Patients with a history of endometriosis or endometritis
- Women who have a history of painful periods
Your doctor will review your medical history and other test results to determine whether an endometrial biopsy can help you on your journey to have a baby. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more.