The 2 Key Factors for a Successful Pregnancy
In this resource article we’ll be discussing implantation, the second stage of a successful pregnancy following successful fertilization, what factors impacts it, and how we can help.
What makes a successful pregnancy?
There are two major elements that are required in any successful pregnancy: a healthy embryo (the result of the meeting of egg and sperm i.e fertilization), and a receptive uterus (ready to accept the healthy embryo).
Where either one of these factors is not met, the embryo is unable to connect with the uterus through the process known as ‘implantation’ – implantation is the first step in the process by which the mother’s body will allow the embryo to attach and give essential nutrients and oxygen to the growing embryo, allowing it to develop into a foetus.
This animation shows the implantation of an embryo in a receptive uterus.
©️ Sydney Reproductive Immunology 2021
What makes a uterus ‘receptive’?
A ‘receptive’ uterus is one that is ready to accept the healthy embryo and begin the process that will eventually lead to a healthy baby. A wide variety of factors influence whether or not a uterus is receptive, many of which can be monitored and controlled. These include hormonal changes in the mother, the behaviour of the mother’s immune system, as well as the physical structure of the uterus and its lining layer.
Where a mother has had difficulty conceiving, all of these factors can be reviewed to try to maximize the chances of a given healthy embryo to attach, and to ensure that the mother’s body and uterus is ‘receptive’.
At Sydney Reproductive Immunology (SRI), we work with you to identify any factors that may be impacting the ability of an embryo to successfully implant. Where appropriate, we can then provide a tailored treatment plan that meets your individual clinical needs.
For Healthcare Providers
At the time of blastocyst apposition with the decidua, factors to be considered include hormonal, immune, immune genetic and genetic.
Uterine receptivity at the window of implantation is determined by appropriate structural, cellular, and hormonal factors, as well as growth factor, immunologic factors, and the cytokine/chemokine environment.
Please don’t hesitate to be in touch regarding SRI’s consulting services.